Distinguished education experts have issued a compelling call for increased investment in Nigeria’s education sector, aligning it with international benchmarks to enhance its pivotal role in the country. This resounding message was delivered on November 1, 2023, during the 2023 National (Hybrid) Conference hosted by the Faculty of Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
At the heart of the conference’s discussions, themed “Education in a Period of Socio-Political and Economic Uncertainty,” was a shared concern regarding Nigeria’s commitment to education, especially when compared to nations like Kenya, Egypt, Namibia, Botswana, and Ghana, which, despite having less economic prowess, have consistently prioritized education as a fundamental component of their national development.
In a pivotal presentation, Professor Chinyere Nwajiuba from the National Open University, Abuja, underscored the alarming prevalence of out-of-school children and the consequential intellectual drain on the nation. She linked these challenges to corruption and the deficiency of political resolve. Professor Nwajiuba cautioned that neglecting education during uncertain times would jeopardize the future well-being of the nation’s youth.
She asserted, “It is disheartening to observe that the central government and political elite have failed to provide essential public goods, including infrastructure, social services, regulation, and public order. The weakened political structures in Nigeria have negatively impacted both the economy and the educational system.”
“Nigerian education grapples with embezzlement, fund diversion, procurement fraud, examination malpractice, nepotism, and bribery, among other issues,” she lamented. Professor Nwajiuba emphasized that quality education is the linchpin for addressing poverty, hunger, and insecurity.
Furthermore, she called for a critical review of Section 177 6(2) of the 1999 constitution, which stipulates that candidates for leadership positions must possess at least a school certificate or its equivalent. She argued that this requirement is intricately linked to the lack of political determination, as evidenced by inadequate budgetary allocations to education.
Keynote Speaker and Dean of the Faculty of Education at Kwara State University, Malete, Ilorin, Professor Titus Umoru, echoed the urgent need for the government to prioritize education, particularly in times of socio-political and economic uncertainty. He advocated for the full integration of technology into education, emphasizing that investment in knowledge and technology-driven economies is indispensable for sustainable education in Nigeria.
The conference was officially declared opened by the Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Charles Okechukwu Esimone, FAS represented by his Special Assistant on Academic, Professor Frederick Odibo. He emphasized the immense relevance of the conference’s theme in light of the nation’s economic challenges, highlighting the pivotal role of education in national development and the detrimental consequences of relegating it to the sidelines.
During a courtesy call, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), lauded the achievements of Professor Esimone’s administration and pledged unwavering commitment to the welfare of staff and students.
In her address, Professor Vivian Ngozi Nwogbo, the Dean of the Faculty of Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, stressed the role of conferences as platforms for idea exchange and issue resolution. She acknowledged that Nigeria’s socio-political and economic realities have adversely affected education and emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for educational growth. Professor Nwogbo expressed gratitude to the national conference committee, led by Professor Amaka U. Okeke, for their dedication to the event’s success.
Professor Okeke, on behalf of the committee, delivered a vote of thanks, commending the University’s management and the Dean of the Faculty of Education for their unwavering support, which significantly contributed to the event’s success. She encouraged participants to maintain an open mind for productive idea exchange and expressed optimism that the conference’s resolutions would help address numerous challenges plaguing the education sector in Nigeria.
The national conference concluded with well-deserved awards presented to outstanding individuals, goodwill messages from friends of the Faculty of Education, and a captivating performance by the Africana International Troupe, led by Professor Oby Okonkwor. The event had in attendance, faculty staff, postgraduate students, and other Education enthusiasts.