The Nation Newspaper

Category: Campus Life

  • Exorcising our demons

    Are you surprised and wondering why there seem to be challenges all over the world? Watching cable news and other channels you are bound to be extremely pessimistic about our country and world. From the senseless Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka to the banditry in Zamfara and renewed killings in other states in Nigeria, the temptation is there to just give up and feel there are no solutions to the demons tormenting our country and world.

    If you’re like this writer who keeps wondering about such things then you need to read “The Fix: How Nations Survive and Thrive in a World in Decline” by Jonathan Tepperman. The timing of this 307 page book could not be better. Critical thinking is needed now than ever. No one appears to agree on fundamental ideas about governing anymore. Issues that can be resolved by dialogue are allowed to fester to the point of conflict because of the ego of elites. Manipulation appears to be a very effective and powerful tool these days.

    The grand ideological debates of the 20th and early 21st centuries – capitalism versus socialism, democracy versus authoritarianism etc – today seem too broad, tired and pointless, and little has come along to replace them. Where there are replacements, it is often hate speech, agitations and ethnic tensions. Globalization, the economic paradigm of our era, has become an epithet in the mouths of insurgent politicians exploiting middle-class discontent on both the right and left.

    The people in power, especially the so-called establishment, still seem surprised by the magnitude of the backlash – by Trump, by Brexit, by Biafra and other deepening anger – and confused about how to respond. And with no one pointing a way through the labyrinth of confusion make situations even dare. Worse still, democracy – seen as the “best” system of governance – itself has seemed to curdle with people yearning for alternatives. But what alternative is the dilemma

    We are in other words utterly adrift, ideologically speaking. It’s hardly a surprise the vacuum of ideas is being filled, in the political arena, by atavistic impulses like nationalism, racism and xenophobia. Jonathan Tepperman’s answer to this “gathering darkness,” as he calls it, is to take a giant step back from the larger, paralysed debate.

    In “The Fix,” Tepperman sets aside ‘Big Think’ in favour of small think: practical, microcosmic solutions to big problems in sometimes surprising places.  From Brazil to Botswana, Indonesia to New York City Tepperman offers what he calls “a data-driven case for optimism” at a time when “most of us have glumly concluded that our governments are broken and our domestic and international problems are insurmountable.”

    The book identifies “the Terrible Ten” and particularly difficult problems, including inequality, immigration, civil war, corruption, Islamic extremism, the resource curse, energy, the middle-­income trap (the difficulty countries have in making the leap from developmental success to wealthy-nation status) and two kinds of political gridlock: what’s not working worldwide. He argues that they are “fixable” when leaders act boldly. For each problem, Tepperman finds a free-thinking and experimental leader (or leaders) who defied the odds and achieved success.

    In the early years of this century, for example, President Luiz Inaìcio Lula da Silva of Brazil developed a ground-breaking poverty-fighting program, Bolsa Famiìlia, which gave small monthly grants to mothers to feed and educate their families. Almost to a tale, these are stories of political pragmatism in the midst of crisis, often involving battlefield conversions by unusually adaptable and able leaders unfettered by “ideological handcuffs.”

    In Brazil, the business community and economists were initially horrified when Lula da Silva, a labour leader who had experienced extreme poverty as a child, was elected president. But the “rabble-rouser metamorphosed into the Great Conciliator,” Tepperman writes, and to address Brazil’s terrible income inequality Lula launched Bolsa Família, an innovative and relatively inexpensive cash-transfer program that didn’t just give people handouts but required “counterpart responsibilities,” including government demands to use some of the money to send one’s kids to school and ensure they are immunized and get regular checkups (along with their mothers).

    Lula ended up winning over even conservatives in his country and dramatically reducing poverty, leading the former World Bank expert Nancy Birdsall to conclude that Bolsa Família is “as close as you can come to a magic bullet in development.” More than 60 countries sent experts to Brazil to study the programme.

    Tepperman also finds successful leadership stories in Mexico, which despite its reputation for runaway corruption and drug violence began to recover under former President Enrique Pena Nieto, who impressively exploited the despair of Mexico’s political elites to forge unprecedented cooperation. In just the first 18 months after his July 2012 election, Pena Nieto “managed to bust open Mexico’s smothering monopolies and antiquated energy sector, restructure the country’s education system and modernize its tax and banking laws,”

    In Botswana, the “cleaner than a hound’s tooth” Seretse Khama lifted his country beyond its dependence on the “resource curse” of diamonds, building what was considered, for a time, one of the best-governed countries in the developing world – a system so structured against corruption that it is, for now, resisting the alleged abuses of his far less capable son, Ian Khama.

    For the past two decades, the democratic leaders of post-Suharto Indonesia have steered their country toward a moderate form of politics that has undercut Islamist radicalism. From his fascinating travelogue, Tepperman offers lessons for a world in trouble: leaders need to think outside the box, embrace the possibilities that crises present, and respect systems of checks and balances. The pragmatic reform tradition that the book illuminates is apparently still alive.

    Though the book is not long, Tepperman goes into impressive detail in each case study and delivers his assessments in clear prose, careful to describe most of his success stories as experiments that could still fail.

    Tepperman has traveled the world to write this book, conducting more than a hundred interviews with heads of state – like Lula, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, Indonesia’s Joko Widodo and other leaders – and other innovators responsible for these unexpected success stories. His access and expertise make “The Fix” a work of unusual insight, focused on the people and leadership lessons behind the policies.

    Meticulously researched and deeply reported, it presents practical advice for aspiring problem-solvers of all stripes, and stands as a necessary corrective to the hand-wringing and grim prognostication that dominates the news these days, making a data-driven case for optimism in a time of crushing pessimism.

    It is easy to look at Nigeria, and indeed, the world today and see nothing but a spiral of disorder, dysfunction, and decline. In this wonderfully engaging book, Tepperman sorted out political success stories that cut against this gloomy outlook.

    Perhaps the biggest question about Tepperman’s thesis is one he addresses but doesn’t fully answer: whether many of these programs are readily transferable to other places, or are unique to the political culture whence they sprang. In the end, for example, former Mayor Bloomberg’s version of Bolsa Família failed to gain traction in New York, and there are indications it may work better in rural than in urban areas.

    As we grapple with the myriad of “demons” tormenting Nigeria and try to make sense of them, it should be clear by now that these “demons” can be exorcised if there is the political will. Our “demons” are elite inspired, and the starting point is to stand back, take critical look at those talking or agitating and see where their interests lie. It will surprise the majority that some of these interests are driven more by personal aggrandisements than the collective good.

    Yes, there are agitations and counter agitation everywhere; but I still believe Nigeria is better together than divided. Let’s not be scared to sit together and talk.

  • Keeping nature alive

    At a two-day workshop on the environment in Lagos, some journalists proffered solutions on how to conserve the ecosystem amid threats posed by climate change and global warming, among others. CAMPUSLIFE correspondent ABDULSALAM MAHMUD, who was there, reports.

    Participants at the African Arts and Media Earth Initiative (AAMEI) 2008/19 academy have recommended that concerted efforts should be made by the government and relevant stakeholders in the environmental sector to halt the spate of degradation occasioned by man’s unregulated activities and over-exploitation.

    This year’s edition, held at Lufasi Nature Park Eti-Osa, Lagos was themed: ‘Development and nature: Reporting the connection.’

    The event was anchored by AAMEI’s founder and environmental reporter Ugochi Oluigbo, and assisted by Bunmi Obanawu,  founder of the  Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE),  a Non-Governmnetal Organisation (NGO).

    AAMEI uses art, entertainment as well as the traditional and new media to explore and create environmental conversations about the changing ecosystem

    Environews Editor-in-Chief, Mr Michael Simire, opened the floodgate of discussions.

    Speaking on ’The mandates of environmental journalists,’ Simire advised Environment reporters to write factual, objective and balanced stories, documentaries and features on the impacts of deforestation, burning of fossil fuels, greenhouse emissions, gas flaring, and oil spillage, among other activities ravaging the country’s ecosystem.

    The Editor, African News Network (ANN), Tunde Osho, cautioned young reporters against disseminating fake and malicious news.

    He urged them to go the extra-mile and verify any piece of information they receive, saying: “You must be fact-checkers who distill inconvertible facts from blatant falsehood in any information.’’

    “Though fake news looks so juicy and ‘unbelievably true’ on the face value, journalists who are peddlers of rumours and outright lies risk tarnishing their good reputation, and professional integrity,” Osho further warned.

    Jennifer Igwe, an award-winning reporter, highlighted the significance of having a human-angle perspective to reports on environmental issues.

    Igwe noted that being adventurous helps reporters to identify ‘unique and beautiful’ angles to  reports, urging participants to read widely so as to broaden their horizon.

    Igwe advised her colleagues to  be in touch with experts versed in environment matters, especially when working on stories about environment. “It is imperative that you relate cordially with environmental activists, and experts in the field. This will enable one to know more about topical environmental issues and the effective solutions to address them. Environmental activists are change-advocates, hence they should be fair, accurate, balanced and objective in their reportage. They should verify information from credible and reliable sources. More importantly, they should be more concerned about writing impact-making stories on environmental problems.”

    Managing Editor, Sahara Reporters, Mr Fisayo Soyombo, drew a distinction between undercover and investigative journalism. He said while the undercover journalism reports are also investigative in nature. not all investigative reports are undercover in nature.

    On professional hazard, Soyombo said reporters who write stories to expose acts of corruption by government officials risked being murdered, harassed, or assaulted physically, to mention a few.

    “As an investigative reporter, you must have plan B and C in case the main strategy you adopted for doing an investigation fails or you run into trouble,” noted Soyombo.

    Another speaker Mr Desmond Majekodunmi, lamented that human beings, their exploitative tendency and harmful activities, are reasons many species of plants and animals have gone into extinction across the world.

    Majekodunmi, who is the Founder of Lufasi Park, disclosed that about 12 million tons of waste plastics are deposited into seas and oceans by rainfall, flooding and erosion. A situation, he maintained, causes severe plastic pollution.

    “It is heart-warming that prominent world leaders have also lent their influential voices to the campaign on tackling climate change. Prince Charles of Wales stated at a previous UN General Assembly gathering that tackling global warming is the greatest challenge facing the world. While Bill Gates, one of the world’s richest, said climate change is a terrible problem, and it absolutely needs to be solved. It deserves to be a huge priority,” Majekodunmi said.

    A conservation ecologist and wildlife photographer Dr. Babajide Agboola, sought more ‘corporate social responsibility (CSR) on wildlife.

    He, nonetheless, expressed dismay that some financial and other profit-making institutions that use animals such as elephant, eagle, lion, birds and many others, as part of their logo, have done little or nothing about conserving the endangered animals’ species.

    Agboola emphasised the need for photojournalists to carry out diligent research to know the aggressive features of various species in wildlife habitats so as not to get harmed in the course of their job.

    He added: “Always observe and carefully track animals or the subjects you intend to give shots. Then be wary of animals’ threat zones. You must also be patient while trying to get the favourite shots you wish to take of wildlife animals. Among other things, know the techniques of photography and master your camera very well.”

    Two participants at the workshop, Gbemile Oluwatosin and Ajibade Adedotun, showcased a collection of their wildlife photographs.

    The Founder of Climate Action Nigeria, Mr. Kelvin Akoje, on his part, said timely response to environmental issues would help to mitigate the impacts of disasters, such as flooding, erosion, and even the age-long farmers/herders’ clashes.

    A participant, Miss Toluwalase Ogunleye, a post-graduate student of Environmental System and Climate Change at the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), said she gained first-hand experience on how to ‘tenderly’ care for her environment and save it from destruction.

  • OAU student commits suicide over failed courses

    A student of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Kolapo Olowoporoku, has committed suicide.

    According to a close source, Olowoporoku took his life in the early hours of Sunday for repeatedly failing  some courses.

    CAMPUSLIFE learnt that Olowoporoku had been battling frustration and depression over courses he borrowed and failed from both the departments of Civil Engineering, and Computer Science.

    Read also: Woman threatens suicide if divorce request fails

    The source, who claimed to be close to the deceased, said the latter usually approached him for counseling anytime he was worried, adding that he (source) never hesitated to lend him a helping hand by telling him never to give up.

    The deceased, who was an executive in the department association, was supposed to have graduated with the 2016/2017 session, but for the failed courses.

  • Will first woman rector resolve OKOPOLY crisis?

    All eyes are on Dr Franceska Nwafulugo, the first woman to be appointed Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, to resolve the institution’s age-long crisis. ARUKWE IFEANYI, (HND1 Building Technology, OKOPOLY), reports.

    IF there is anything workers of Federal Polytechnic, Oko (OKOPOLY) Anambra State, expect of their first woman Rector, Dr Franceska Nwafulugo, it is the resolution of the institution’s age-long crises.

    The workers and students flocked to the convocation arena for her inauguration last month.

    Dr Nwafulugo’s appointment was seen by many as ‘divine’. First, she is the first woman Rector  in the 38 years of the institution’s existence. Second, her emergence, despite other high –heeled contenders that slugged it out with her, was seen as a soothing balm for an institution so steeped in crisis and desperately in need of a peacemaker.

    Dr Nwafulugo, 54, and with teaching experience in polytechnic education spanning 26 years, knows the terrain quite well. Unfortunately, she was bequeathed an institution riddled in bad blood, internal strife and industrial disharmony, lack of trust, and bottled-up emotions. Yet Nwafulugo, a chemical engineer, is determined to roll up her sleeves and hit the ground running.

    Prior to her appointment, Dr Izuchukwu Onu had taken over in acting capacity in February. This followed the expiration of the two-term tenure of the former Rector, Prof Godwin Onu. Given the limitation of power that can be exercised by an Acting Rector, staff and students had anxiously prayed not only for a substantive rector but one that would calm frayed nerves.

    Having understood the gush of crisis preceding her emergence, Nwafulugo, without being told, knows she must first seek peace by urging aggrieved workers and students to forget the past.

    Barely two years ago, a clash erupted between some students and youths of the community, leading to the management shutting down the school for months to forestall vandalisation of its property. Besides, the institution has battled underfunding and threats of erosion.

    Before Dr Izuchukwu Onu was handed the baton, his predecessor’s two terms of eight years were a cascade of turbulence.

    Ahead of the national strike declared by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics in December, OKOPOLY chapter of the union has been at loggerheads with the management. Their agitations bordered on poor funding of polytechnics, lopsided appointment, employment of unqualified teachers; review of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information (IPPIS) scheme in polytechnics and the funding of the Consolidated Tertiary Institution Salary Structure (CONTISS 15) migration, among others.

    The crisis paralysed the institution’s activities to the extent that it could not hold its combined convocation last year. Also, thousands of its fresh students who had been offered provisional admission could not join their colleagues as activities were virtually grounded.

    In all fairness, Onu would generally be remembered for his attempts to digitalise the institution. His tenure was also credited with the establishment of some international links and exchange programmes with some institutions in India, the United Kingdom and China; yet his leadership style appeared not to have sat well with some stakeholders and community leaders in the host community who believed Prof Onu was not a manager of people.

    The crisis reached a head in March 2015, following allegation of a clandestine plan by  Onu  to relocate the institution to his hometown in Ezira, a few kilometers from Oko. Though the institution’s Governing Council repeatedly denied the allegation; the news drew the ire of community leaders and women who a staged series of protests under the aegis of Oko People’s Union (OPU), demanding that Onu be sacked.

    In March of same year, authorities of the institution set up a seven-member committee to seek a truce in the workers-management crisis. The committee headed by the Chaplain of the institution, Venerable Chukwudi Osondu, comprised some influential individuals, including a former rector and registrar of the institution, Prof Uba Nwouba and Mr Ben Okechukwu. The committee could only do little to assuage individuals’ grievances.

    There was also an insinuation that the rector was orchestrating his reappointment for another four years term in office. This was also denied by management. If anything, however, it only compounded the festering crisis when Prof Onu was eventually reappointed.

    In her inauguration address, Nwafulugo extended the olive branch to everyone, insisting that the era of vendetta and bickering was gone for good. She urged all to purge their hearts of bitterness and begin a new journey of transformation in the institution.

    Nwafulugo explained that no sustainable development could be achieved in an atmosphere of rancour and industrial strife, pleading with warring factions to lay down arms and embrace the wind of change.

    Unveiling her vision for the institution, the new Rector promised that her administration would be hinged on a tripod: staff training, welfare and academic research.

    Said Nwafulugo: “I want to see this polytechnic attain new heights in the field of academics, innovations, creativity, ICT (information and communication technology), entrepreneurship, and infrastructural development. This administration will create a conducive learning environment which will enhance quality teaching and learning, thereby producing graduates that would positively impact the nation and the world at large.”

    She also assured that her tenure would focus on promoting science education, technology, and infrastructure which, according to her, are benchmarks of reputable institutions in the world.

    Bearing in mind the deep-seated animosity with the host community under the previous administration, Dr Nwafulugo did not waste time in bridging the lacuna. Her visit to the traditional ruler of Oko community, Prof Laz Ekwueme, and the hosting of the daughters of Oko (Umuada Oko), were steps to reignite the symbiotic relationship both parties once enjoyed.

    “I have come to seek your support to take Federal Polytechnic Oko to the next level,” Nwafulugo said while addressing the Igwe-in-Council.

    “I have come with lots of plans but this requires all hands on deck to make this dream come true. Women are pillars of our homes and

    I would bring my experience in the polytechnic system to bear to ensure that the institution becomes the envy of all.”

    With excitement sprawled on his face, Prof Ekwueme promised to give the new management his full support. The traditional ruler also seized the opportunity to call on the government to urgently consider the upgrading of the polytechnic to a full-fledged university, adding that the institution is long overdue for that status.

    Few weeks after her inauguration, the Rector crisscrossed various departments and units, interacting with head of departments, coordinators, and heads of various units. Nwafulugo described the facility tour as an ‘eye opener’ as it afforded her on-the-spot assessment of the institution on one hand, while also giving her first hand knowledge of critical areas that needed immediate attention, on the other.

    Having gone around, she said management would immediately commence renovation of students’ classrooms and lecture halls to acceptable standard.

    To improve power supply in the institution, Nwafulugo also directed the immediate installation of transformers which have been acquired but not yet installed. In addition, she has directed the reactivation of streetlights in key areas on campus to further boost security and enable students move about freely on campus.  Nwafulugo warned that her administration would not tolerate wastage of government facilities, noting that various ongoing projects must be completed in record time.

    At present, refurbishment is ongoing at the main gate of the institution to enhance its aesthetic quality and free flow of traffic. The work includes designing of new nameplate for the institution, revamping of the water fountain and beautification of the entire school premises.

    The Rector promised to diversify the internally generated revenue (IGR) base of the institution and reduce sole dependence on government funding. She said management has commenced discussions with reputable organisations to explore viable sources of revenue for the institution.

    At the same time, Nwafulugo bemoaned the lack of recreational facilities on campus. According to her, since the polytechnic has a large youth population, a recreational centre would provide a platform for staff and students to exercise and develop sporting skills for a lifetime career.

    Though, Nwafulugo’s appointment is being embraced by workers many who have sent in their congratulatory messages. Nevertheless, the new administration is being advised to tread softly, avoid mere praise singers and learn from the mistakes of the past.

    The newly elected Chairman of the OKOPOLY-ASUP and his predecessor comrades Signor Igbokwe and Godson Okeoma respectively, said the union’s expectations are high on the new management. Igbokwe urged the new Rector to create an environment that will enhance her performance. He warned her to steer clear of sycophants that have been a clog in the wheel of progress to past administrations.

    “A woman rector is good to have at this time in the polytechnic to unite all divides. Her coming will bring more progress and success,” Igbokwe stated.

    Okeoma admonished Nwafulugo to bring in new innovations capable of restoring back the lost glory of the institution.

    He advised the new management to ensure successful accreditation of abandoned programmes; introduction of new ones and restoration of quality academics delivery that has been the hallmark of OKOPOLY.

    The Students’ Union of the institution is equally upbeat of Nwafulugo’s ability to deliver.

    Comrade Izuchukwu Akuche aka Obidada who is the President of OKOPOLY SU, said Nwafulugo’s arrival, though still very brief, has brought great relief to the once troubled institution.

    “Mummy,” Akuche said,”your appointment attests to your outstanding leadership, and the unwavering confidence the Federal Government has in your ability to deliver. This sterling qualities in you will account for the rapid transformation of Federal Polytechnic Oko as the most progressive, efficient and effective institution in Nigeria.

    “Your excellent leadership so far has brought so much joy and succour into the lives of the students, and staff of Federal Polytechnic Oko. Your gift of love, peace and rejuvenation in our lives are exceptional, your developmental stride are intimidating.

    “On behalf of the students, we joined millions of your admirers to felicitate with you. We pray that God Almighty will give you the wisdom, knowledge, understanding and strength as you pilot the affairs of the polytechnic.”

    Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) OKOPOLY chapter, also identified with the new management.

    “Her administration must be seen to be people-oriented and do everything within the law to be voice of the voiceless in this institution,” said SSANIP-OKOPOLY Chairman, Comrade Innocent Okeke.

    “She must divest herself of petty politics of religion, ethnicity and gender. Also, rumour mongers and pretenders are the real enemies of any administration. We wish her tremendous success in all ramifications,”Okeke added.

    Also a sister institution-Federal Polytechnic Nekede, has described Nwafulugo’s appointment as a reward of her innumerable contributions in the education sector.

    “Your emergence as the Rector of this great institution shows that the records of your achievements as a dogged engineer and educationist are of note,” said the Rector of the institution Dr. Michael Arimanwa.

    A non-teaching staff of the institution Ifeoma Okoye, said since Nwafulugo is a product of polytechnic education, she no doubt has a clear vision of the problems affecting OKOPOLY. She therefore expressed hope that her administration would be a blessing to the polytechnic.

    And yet another, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, Mr Ugochukwu Onuegbu, described Nwafulugo as a thorough-bred scholar hoping that the new Rector’s would break the jinx that has kept OKOPOLY almost on the same spot for sometimes.

    Aside having lectured for 26 years at Kaduna Polytechnic, Dr Nwafulugo was once the chairperson, Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), an arm of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Kaduna chapter and member of so many other professional bodies.

  • Lessons from Singapore

    My definition of an educated man is a man who never stops learning and wants to learn.”- Lee Kuan Yew

    One of the key principles guiding my life is imbibing positive attributes and traits from mentors and people I admire and jettisoning the negatives. I give similar advice to the young men I have, or still mentoring. As fallible humans, we all have our strengths and weaknesses. As is true with humans, so it is with nations which explains why some succeed and others fail.

    So much has been written about the life and times of the late Singapore leader, Lee Kuan Yew’s achievements, both in and out of office. This great leader was ranked among the best leaders of the 20th century because of what he did for his tiny landlocked city state by turning it into one of the most developed countries of the world. One key area he focused on – which is often overlooked – is the huge investment in education. So, what was the magic wand?

    The strategy that the late statesman adopted was to develop Singapore’s only available ‘natural resource,’ its people. It is instructive to note that as a result of this strategy Singapore ranks among the top performers in educational attainment, as measured by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD’s) Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). Moreover, though a city-state of just five million people, Singapore boasts two universities among the top 75 in the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the same number as China, Japan, and Germany.

    Lee Kuan Yew did not just wave a magic wand and everything suddenly fell into place.  No, his was a deliberate, calculated and targeted effort of a mind that is aware that with disciplined efforts man can actually move mountain. As expected, it was not easy starting, especially for a landlocked country without any visible natural resource.

    Though a nationalist, Yew ensured that the country’s education system was built on the very solid foundations inherited from Singapore’s British colonial past. In contrast to many of his contemporaries among post-colonial leaders, Lee Kuan Yew was not afraid to embrace whatever elements from that past that would prove useful to the nation-building enterprise. Like most nationalists, he detested colonialism, but he was smart enough to realise that there are elements beneficial in national transformation.

    In line with this, many of the country’s premier educational institutions – for example, the National University of Singapore (founded in1905), Raffles Institution (founded in 1823), and the Anglo-Chinese School (founded in 1886) – significantly predate independence in 1963. Moreover, the curriculum for secondary education is modeled on the British O level and A level qualifications (with some adaptation to account for the generally higher average attainment levels of students in Singapore). And, though infrastructure is by no means neglected, the primary focus of educational investment is students and teachers.

    To cap it, a national system of generous scholarships enables the best students to avail themselves of an education at some of the world’s premier universities, even as Singapore develops its own world-class institutions. Moreover, with starting salaries above the national median, the teaching profession attracts, develops, and retains some of the best graduates. This was deliberate and it has paid off in the long run.

    Standards were also crucial to this strategy as the education system is uncompromisingly driven by merit which some have criticised as being elitist in its focus on identifying and developing the very best talent and, equally important, directing it toward public service. To ensure that the state gets the best from recipients, government scholarship recipients are obliged to serve in the public sector for a minimum of two years for every one year of study.

    A system driven by merit will expectedly have higher standards governing the training, development and promotion of teachers. Criteria are created where top-performing teachers are given leadership responsibilities without excessive regard to tenure, and there is a revolving door between the education ministry, classrooms, and school administration. Educators are frequently seconded to carry out policy work. Many subsequently choose to return to the classroom.

    The elitist tendency in Singapore’s education system is tempered by the fact that quality education is available for all levels of academic aptitude. The country is rightly proud of its elite secondary and tertiary academic institutions, but one could argue that the hidden gems of the system are the hundreds of neighborhood schools, institutes for technical education, and polytechnics that provide high-quality education for all.

    Not losing track of a rapidly changing world, Singapore’s education system is relentlessly forward-looking and in tune with the times. Take the language of communication as an example; the country adopts a bilingual approach with English, in addition to the mother tongue of Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. These are used to relate with mainland China and Malaysia. This is further driven by the focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics which are better known by the acronym STEM. It helped propel the country from a third to a first world nation in less than two decades.

    Why English and not Chinese since a substantial number of Singaporeans are from mainland China, some may be tempted to ask. The choice of English was driven by history and a multiethnic society’s need for a common language. But it was also a prescient recognition of English’s rapid emergence as the lingua franca of global commerce and science, and that once entrenched it was likely to remain so for decades, if not centuries, to come.

    In this regard, too, Lee Kuan Yew distinguished himself from other post-colonial leaders of his generation. Rather than pandering to narrow nationalist sentiment and opting for the majority language and culture, he and his colleagues chose to adopt a global language for a global city.

    As things began to change globally, Singapore’s education system began to change from the 1990s, as policymakers, concerned that their approach to education might be somewhat regimented and overly focused on STEM, began to provide avenues for excellence in the humanities, arts, and sport. That rebalancing is still ongoing, with a new emphasis on identifying ways to foster creativity and entrepreneurship.

    As a forward looking country, policymakers learnt from the Asian financial crisis of 1997. The world economy was shifting to a global knowledge economy, the competitive framework of nations was being redefined and national progress would increasingly be determined by the discovery and application of new and marketable ideas. The growth of the global knowledge economy required a paradigm shift in Singapore’s education system towards a focus on innovation, creativity and research.

    All these would not have been achieved without funding which is why education spending usually makes up about 20 percent of the annual national budget. The government subsidises state education and government-assisted private education for Singaporean citizens and funds the “Edusave” programme (part of a scheme to maximise opportunities for all Singaporean children. It reward students who perform well or who make good progress in their academic and non-academic work, and provides them and schools who qualify with funds to pay for enrichment programmes or to purchase additional resources).

    The country also created a new educational vision, “Thinking Schools, Learning Nation.” This major milestone in Singapore’s education journey recognised former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong’s belief that “a nation’s wealth in the 21st century will depend on the capacity of its people to learn.” The vision encompassed a wide range of initiatives over a number of years that were designed to tailor education to the abilities and interests of students, to provide more flexibility and choice for students and to transform the structures of education. Career paths and incentives for teachers were revamped and teacher education upgraded.

    To those who believe that large-scale change in educational performance is not possible, Singapore has shown several times over that significant change is possible. Singapore has developed a high-quality system in terms of educational retention, quality and efficiency.

    The country has taught the third world that to become and remain high-performing, they need a policy infrastructure that drives performance and builds the capacity for educators to deliver it in schools. Singapore has developed both. Where She is today is no accident, it is the result of several decades of judicious policy and effective implementation.

  • UDUS to pilot electric vehicle scheme

    Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto  (UDUS) in partnership with National Automative Design and Development Council  (NADDC) has concluded plans to start an Electric Vehicle Pilot programme.

    This was revealed last week by NADDC Director-General Jelani Aliyu.

    Presenting a paper at a public lecture to mark the university’s 35th, 36th and 37th joint convocation, Aliyu, a prominent Sokoto-born car designer, said he was excited about the collaboration that is underway.

    “That is why I am particularly excited about a programme that our agency, the National Automative Design and Development Council, is doing with this very university. God willing, we shall soon start an Electric Vehicle pilot programme,” Aliyu said.

    According to him, following a meeting with UDUS Vice Chancellor Prof Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, three electric vehicles are in the process of being procured by the agency, adding that once done, they would be transferred to UDUS for  test-running towards identifying likely challenges.

    He said: “We recently met with the Vice Chancellor and our agency is in the process of procuring three electronic vehicles which we will test run here in collaboration with the Energy Research Centre, to begin the technology transfer and understand opportunities and challenges.”

    Aliyu noted that the motive behind the introduction of such sophisticated technology on the soil of UDUS, is to scrape out the phobia for advanced technology and empower the people technology wise.

    “The whole objective is not to be afraid of advanced technology, to identify fantastic innovation, secure it, deploy it within our localities thereby enlightening and empowering our people,” Aliyu explained during the lecture.

    Once the delivery is taken, the two electric vehicles will be situated within permanent site, but will also go back and forth between the two campuses, Aliyu further explained.

    “The Electric Vehicles will run within the permanent site, and also shuttle between the two campuses,” he added.

    Zuru expressed his sincere gratitude to Aliyu for not just delivering an inspiring lecture, but also picking UDUS as the first university to launch the pilot programme, before two others.

    “Three universities-University of Lagos (UNILAG), UDUS, and University of Nigeria, Nsukka  (UNN) have been chosen by the agency to begin the Electric Vehicle Pilot studies, and I’m happy to inform you that it will be launched here first,” Zuru said during his vote of thanks.

  • Shun vices, varsity tells students

    Newly-admitted students of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, in Niger State, have been advised to be committed to their studies and avoid vices that contravene the rules and regulations of the school.

    The university’s vice-chancellor, Prof Muhammad Nasir Maiturare, also called on them to be prayerful and hardworking so as to actualise their dreams.

    Prof Maiturare, who spoke during the matriculation of new students at the university’s premises, noted that in 2018/2019 academic session, a total of 3,638 UTME and Direct Entry candidates were offered admission.

    He said the university has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, poor academic performance and improper use of the social media, among other ills. Maiturare also announced to excited guests that in no distant time the College of Medicine will take off. He praised Niger State government for its continued support towards the growth and development of the school.

    Representative of Niger State government Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, revealed that approval has been given for the construction of a 500-bed space for both male and female hostels.

    Ndace, who is the Chief Press Sectary (CPS) to the Niger State governor, Abubakar  Sani Bello, cautioned the students against disseminating fake news and hate speeches on social media in order not to instigate violence and mutual distrust among the general public.

    Similarly, an Islamic cleric Sheikh Umar Dada Paiko and Prof. Yetunde Olorusanya of the institution’s Faculty of Agriculture, both admonished the students to always exhibit good moral behaviours and shun acts which may portray them, and in extension, the school, in negative light.

  • Award body holds 4th edition

    Prestige Anchor International will hold its fourth Prestige Anchor Leadership, Empowerment and Capacity building (PALEC) awards and Leadership Conference at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile- Ife, on Friday 17th  and Saturday 18th,  next month.

    According to a statement by the programme convener, Adebayo Nathaniel, the award will celebrate individuals and firms that have helped solve youth-related problems.

    “PALEC award is committed to recognising and rewarding students, individuals, firms, who have helped in one way or the other to solve societal problems faced by our vibrant and talented youths of today and empower them by building their skills and capacity,” the statement stated.

    Adebayo added that the award is to encourage youths to be actively involved in community development: “The award is imperative to serve as an encouragement for upcoming youths to rise and take charge of the community in a bid to cause a paradigm shift and social change. The conference is set to preach leadership and panel discussions to set student leaders in focus and build their capacity.”

    According to him, the conference with the theme: ‘The Maverick’, would begin with essay competition on the first day, while the following day, which is the grand finale, would feature activities such as talent hunt and entrepreneur empowerment/exhibition, among others.

    It will be recalled that the previous editions of the event, which  held in Minna, Niger State, Abuja, and Benin respectively, brought together over 2000 young and vibrant leaders with over 175 young leaders, firms, individuals, and activists presented with awards.

  • FUNAAB honours Buhari

    The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) inaugurated a car park/bus stop in President Muhammadu Buhari’s honur to mark its 30th anniversary and Founder’s Day.

    The project, undertaken by the immediate past executive of the Students’ Union (SU), was inuagurated by the incumbent SU President, Comrade Popoola Ayobami, popularly known as Dasilva.

    According to Popoola, the car park would be known as President Muhammadu Buhari Car Park/Bus Stop, with the aka acronym ‘PMB square’.

    The two accompanying shed stands were also named; one in honour of the incumbent Vice Chancellors, Prof Felix Kolawole Salako, and the other for his predecessor Oluwafisayomi Adelaja, (now late).

    Speaking with CAMPUSLIFE shortly after the event, Popoola expressed happiness over the completion of the project, describing it as a dream come true.

    He also said the car park would address one of the problems of the institution.

    He said: “This is going to be a welcome development because we have just been able to salvage one of the problems affecting the university, which is a key factor to the growth of the university.

    “What we have just done is one of its kind, which is a landmark in the history of students’ unionism and we have not had any regret for embarking on this project.”

    Before cutting the ribbon, the vice chancellor appreciated the students and the union executives for their good conduct which made the project see the light of day.

    Prof Salako also described the project as one that would alleviate the sufferings of students, who usually wait for hours for vehicles after lectures.

    He said: “It (the project) is going to be a lot of relief for commercial vehicles going from the gate to the campus. Definitely, people are going to have a space to sit while waiting for vehicles, the commercial vehicles will also be relieved having a conducive environment to really do their work. This project will go a long way in terms of community relationships.”

    The naming was done to appreciate President Buhari-led administration’s efforts to dualise Camp-Alabata Road leading to the main campus. “The road has been abandoned for years until recently when little attention was given to it. Though the road needs total reconstruction because its design  was done more than 20 years ago. This cannot match the 21st Century demand on the road. So, there’s need for Federal Government, especially the Federal Ministry of Works, Housing and Power to look into this and do the needful.

    “Our decision was based on the fact that we appreciate the efforts of Federal Government led by President Buhari on the anti-corruption crusade, economy and security nationwide as well as the dualisation of Camp-Alabata road leading to main campus.

    “This is the first time President Buhari would be honoured at FUNAAB and this honour was carried out by students’ leader led by the number one student on campus Comrade Da Silva.

    “It behoves the Federal Government, especially President Buhari, to give this number one University of Agriculture in Africa and one of the best in the world, the needed attention and funding so that  food insecurity could be addressed by transformative and proactive ideas from these students of Agriculture driven by technology.”

  • ‘Many thought I couldn’t succeed, but I dazed them’

    Multi-talented Tijani Ibrahim’s story is one of a kind. He was born without a limb, but that did not stop him from succeeding. Against all odds, he pursued his dream of attaining academic excellence. He just completed his Ordinary National Diploma programme in Mass Communication at the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic. In this interview with EFOSA TAIWO, the physically-challenged Ibrahim recounts his life experience, describing it as satisfactory than regrettable.

    How was growing up like?

    It was okay based on the family I grew up with. They made me to care less about anything.

    How did your family make you less worried about your condition?

    They treated me not in a special manner. Others went to school, I did too. Others did home chores, same with me. They were beaten for doing wrong things, so was I. Also, my family is like a motivation to me, they believe in me, spend most on me and they keep letting me feel that I can do everything others can.

    What led to the loss of your limb?

    I was born this way

    Does this mean it was inherited or what story were you told about it?

    It wasn’t hereditary. I am the only one like this in my family. It is just God’s will, and I feel that’s the best for me

    How many are you in your family?

    I can’t actually say because I am from a polygamous home. We are about 12, but only five from my Mum.

    Did you at any point in your lifetime feel hopeless about your condition ?

    I have never been hopeless.

    What has been your inspiration?

    Let me say this, what people call your shortcoming should be your strength. Many still believe I can’t, and I always want to prove to them, I can do all.

    What has been your biggest challenge?

    It used to be lack of confidence in doing all. I once thought I had limit to what I could do, but now I feel I can do almost all and I am the best thing and most talented I have ever seen.

    How supportive have your parents been?

    They are always supportive, they have shown me love and spent almost all they have to make me a successful person. They made many sacrifices for my satisfaction.

    What about friends?

    You know in life, not all friends are friends. Some are there for the moment. However, majority of them are also a source of motivation. They sometimes act like I am better than them. Some make me feel I am the most talented. Recently, one of my best friends (a female) asked me about my girlfriend and immediately she teased me that she knew I couldn’t be single because I am talented.

    What is the most embarrassing moment you have ever had?

    I remember the day I forgot my lines on stage. That day was funny, the only thing that helped me was that people knew I was good. I dropped the microphone to the next performer, who did well. I collected the microphone again but still, I couldn’t remember. I left the stage in shame.

    What is your most rewarding moment?

    When I was given a honorary award at a sport competition, Nasfat game (NASGA) 2016. I think that’s the only one I can remember for now, because I have had many rewarding moments. As an underdog, coming third at Mash up contest is what I could call the best.  I participated in scrabble.

    Have you ever been discriminated against as a result of your disability?

    Not really, because immediately I get to a place, I always make them realise that I am not different from them. Sometimes I want to appear better.

    What has always been your ambition in life?

    No special ambition, I just want to leave an unforgettable, but positive memories behind. I want to live forever.

    If you were to spend three hours of your lifetime with someone of your choice, who would that person be ?

    Nick Vujicic, the motivational speaker and cleric, who has  no limb and arms, but 1.3 million followers on Instagram.

    What are your hobbies?

    Snooker and football.

    You have an Instagram page where you inspire people, tell us more about it

    The instagram page is-@thrivespeak., I created it a long time ago, though, different names had been used. I created it to unleash my passion to be a motivation to others, and be a hope for the hopeless. Those who believe they can’t, seeing me will make them believe they can also do it. The Instagram page is just one of the platforms I use in doing this.

    What would be your words to those in your shoes?

    They should know that life is all about war. We just have to keep fighting if you want to be what you dreamed. Prepare for pain and suffering. Like I do say: “You either suffer to stop suffering or suffer for not suffering.” Also, you should know, we are all gifted, therefore, can do something special. Don’t believe someone is talented and you’re not, you are just yet to know what you can. I am not good in anything; I just love, wanting to try everything that makes me appear talented.