The Nation Newspaper

Category: Campus Life

  • How to reposition student unionism, by group

    How to reposition student unionism, by group

    • By Tunde Adeniyi, FCET

    A non-governmental organisation, MaroonSquare, has stressed the need to reposition student activism in the country.

    During its annual roundtable at the Federal College of Education Technical, Yaba,  Lagos, tagged, ‘The Nigerian Students Movement: 1982-1992’, the organisation noted that there are continuous attempts to re-organise the students’ union movement in the shape that it was before its ideological bankruptcy from the late 90s till date. The  programme was supported by the Ross Luxemburg Foundation, a non governmental organisation.

    Keynote speaker Hauwa Mustapha, a  Development Economist, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), said  student activism must reach beyond the narrow focus of local interests, adding that  increased energy must be directed towards global issues – issues that address our commonality the world over as humankind and which have effects on our well-being and those of future generations.

    Mustapha, who was represented by Lagos Coordinator,  Amilcar Cabral Ideological School, Sheriff Sholagbade noted that ‘the calamity’ that befell  students union movement is a part of an organised global war of capitalism against socialism, against people’s power and against collective struggle. 

    She said: “While advocating for an overhaul of the education content, we must begin to collaborate to contribute to infusing critical debates and learning circle in our secondary and tertiary institutions. As the world becomes globalised, student activism must reach beyond the narrow focus of local interests. Instead, increased energy must be directed towards global issues – issues that address our commonality the world over as humankind and which have effects on our well-being and those of future generations. Such issues include; climate change, migration, trafficking in people, afrocentricism and free market, governance, democracy, gender and inclusions.

    Read Also: Adegbulugbe appointed JABU Chancellor

    In other words, Nigerian student activists must become global development activists; an active pressure group on national and international development matters; leveraging on the powers of information and communication technology to educate, inform, energise, mobilise capacity to function as effective watchdogs of the Nigerian state and its activities in the global political scene.”

    Policy Director of MaroonSquare, Onyeisi Chiemeke, stressed the need for  training of union leaders, adding that it was essential for females to participate  in unionism. She flayed poor moral standards  and indiscipline in students’ unionism, being fuelled by excessive  lust power and money.

     Editor of Youth Digest Magazine, Yomi Gidado, in a paper on ‘Voices, representation and the dynamics of students unionism: An interrogation of the activities of Students’ Union in Ondo State University in Ado-Ekiti (1986-1992)’, underscored the importance of  political education and re-orientation of SUG leaders to align with the original aim of unionism  and activism on campus. Gidado, who was once a student union leader, said unionism these was longer what it used to be. He said true leaders no longer existed on campuses.

    He urged students to be effective watchdog of the Nigerian state and its activities on the global political scene.

  • Experts urge govt to invest in digital infrastructure for learning

    Experts urge govt to invest in digital infrastructure for learning

    Governments at both state and federal levels, as well as other stakeholders in the education sector in have been urged to invest heavily in digital infrastructure to deepen  blended learning.

    Blended learning or hybrid learning is an approach to education that combines traditional in-class instructor-led teaching with e-learning content to create a more flexible learning experience.

    This was one of the major takeouts at the just concluded November edition of Edtech Mondays Fireside Chat by the Co-Creation Hub (CCHUB) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation’s Centre for Innovative Teaching & Learning in ICT.

    This edition of the initiative themed: “Monitoring and evaluation of blended learning models,” moderated by Chinyelu Akpa, the Practice Lead, Education CCHUB, featured an impressive list of Edtech experts – the founder, Learners Corner Education Tech Hub, Julius Ilori, Principal, Alpha Choice Innovative Academy, Senbanjo Olufemi, and Director of Academics, NewGlobe, Nduka Akujobi.

    Speaking during the panel session, Akujobi, noted that Nigeria’s education landscape is growing fast in adopting and implementing blended learning models since the advent of COVID-19.

    Akujobi noted that the company was at the forefront of collaborating with state governments by leveraging technology to transform learning and improve literacy, which would impact the economy. He cited examples of Lagos State, Bayelsa, Edo, and Kwara, where such models have been implemented, resulting in positive outcomes.

    He stated that the ultimate goal of deploying blended learning was to ensure that learning deprivation is considerably reduced in line with global benchmarks.

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    Also speaking during the panel session, Olufemi, noted that adopting blended learning models became necessary as a result of the COVID-19 lockdown as well as the quest for innovation within a collaborative learning environment.

    While admitting the challenges faced in co-opting parents and pupils for blended learning, he explained that the future of learning lies in deploying technology through a blended approach.

    He charged educational institutions to be intentional about implementing a blended learning approach by ensuring there is an enabling environment, good internet access, and the necessary digital infrastructure and tools.

     Ilori stressed the need for the government to invest in technology and  provide digital infrastructure.He urged

    stakeholders and policymakers to consider bringing culture or language into the learning space to aid  blended learning.

  • 12-year-old wins Spelling Bee contests

    12-year-old wins Spelling Bee contests

    Following months of intense competition, 12-year-old, Nkanu Daniel Victor, has emerged the winner of the 2023 edition of the MTN mPulse Spelling Bee Competition. Daniel, a student of Intimacy with Christ International, Nasarawa, won the competition after spelling eight words correctly in a spell-off against 11-year-old Oluwadamilola Adeolu in the finale, which was held at the MTN Head Office in Ikoyi, Lagos.

    The mPulse Spelling Bee Competition aims to encourage academic growth and self-improvement for students in primary and secondary schools between the ages of nine and 15. It began in August 2023, with participation from over 30,000 students across the country.  The 12-year-old champion will assume leadership of MTN Nigeria for a day and become the face of mPulse for a year.

    Speaking at the event, the Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, MTN Nigeria, Obiageli Ugboma, congratulated the contestants for making it into the finals, whilst reiterating MTN’s commitment to promoting digital literacy in Nigeria. 

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    Daniel will receive a N2.5 million scholarship grant, laptop, smartphone, and an MTN goody bag in addition to being MTN Nigeria’s CEO for a day. The spelling bee champion’s school will also receive cutting-edge ICT devices, including 10 laptops and 10 Hynet Modems, while her Spelling Coach/teacher will receive a cash prize of N500,000.

    Sharing his excitement at emerging triumphant, Daniel, beaming with joy said: “It feels like a dream to me, I am speechless. It was a tough competition, but I am very happy I came this far and won in the end.”

    Alongside Daniel, the first and second runners-up, Oluwadamilola Adeolu and Ajibola Flourish, both from St Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado Ekiti, and other finalists received prizes totalling over N10 million as well as numerous goody bags. 

    The mPulse Spelling Bee is one of many initiatives organised by MTN to enable students in primary and secondary schools across the country to excel through healthy competitions, engage with our community, and highlight our commitment to education.

  • Yabatech, UK varsities partner on technology, arts, others

    Yabatech, UK varsities partner on technology, arts, others

    • By Emmanuel Orji, YABATECH

    Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has signed pacts with the University of Derby (UOD) and University of Northampton (UON) based in Buxton, Derby and Northampton, London, respectively.

    The partnerships are in the areas of technology, arts and social sciences for strategic cooperation towards  a brighter future for the  institution in making it a world global brand.

    The pacts were signed on behalf of the college by her Rector, Dr Abdul Ibraheem at the meetings between the management of the two universities during his formal visit to the two institutions in the United Kingdom.

    The heads of faculties and international engagements relations departments of the two universities were in attendance at the signing of the memorandum of understanding.

    The focus of the partnership with the University of Northampton centered on Arts, Science, and Technology.

    This is to include the exchange of teaching and research personnel, exchange of student programmes, development in research activities, exploration of collaboration at the course level like articulation arrangements, and activities of mutual interests. The University of Derby signed a pact that revolved around finance, business and social sciences.

    The two schools agreed to develop a framework for progression opportunities for graduates of the college to acquire further degrees, and co-create to offer executive programmes and short courses that will close skills gaps in the nation’s finance and business industry.

    Read Also: Varsity commences admission to 30 courses

    The collaboration also covered the college apprenticeship programmes in collaboration with blue chip industries in both countries to enhance quality skills development and mobility of such skills.

    The Centre for Linkage, Partnership and International Relations (CLPIR) of YABATECH  would lead other relevant centres in the college including the Centre for Research Support and Grants Management (CRSGM) in the actualisation of the objectives of the signed pacts.

    The University of Derby provides around 300 study programmes, as well as short courses and foundation degrees, through four faculties, namely: Faculty of Business, Computing and Law; Faculty of Art, Design & Technology; Faculty of Education, Health and Science.

    The University of Northampton is a public university based in Northampton, Northamptonshire, England. It was formed in 1999 by the amalgamation of several training colleges the first one established in 1261, and gained full university status as the University of Northampton in 2005.

  • UNILAG VC, others hail don on appointment

    UNILAG VC, others hail don on appointment

    • By Tosin Odunewu, UNILAG

    The Vice Chancellor of University of Lagos,(UNILAG) Prof. Folasade Ogunsola,  dignitaries from all walks  of life, friends and family have extolled the virtues  of Prof. Azeez Butali who was  appointed as an Endowed Professor at the University of Iowa, U.S.A, where he  works as Dental Scientist.

    The Endowed Professorship is the highest  rank the university can bestow on an academic.

    Speaking at a celebration party in Lagos  to honour Butali, Ogunsola lauded him as one with a large heart and a worthy  UNILAG alumnus who has achieved several feats in his profession and impacted lives in the institution.

    She noted that the honour bestowed  on him was  a testament that possibilities abound to anyone no matter the colour or circumstances, if only the person can dream and develop the right mindset towards achieving his or her goal.

    “Prof. Butali has a large heart and is a shining example of our alumni and Nigeria at large, and I am proud of your achievement. You are an inspiration to us all, and as the mother of the day, I have adopted you as my son,” she said.

    Chief Medical Director of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof. Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo also hailed Butali for his contributions to the medical field.

     “Butali has contributed significantly to the medical profession in Nigeria. He is a fellow of the Academy of Medicine Specialties of Nigeria and for you to become a fellow you must have contributed immensely to the sector and recognised in the diaspora as well and this honour befits you,” he said.

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    President of Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Amb. Queen Blessing Ebigieson  described the don as a rare breed and someone that has excelled beyond  medical profession. She noted that his  philanthropic and selfless qualities had initially endeared him to her when she reached out to him for  support for her foundation.

    Ebigieson added that Butali deserved to be a leader in the political sphere where he would  be able to make far-reaching reforms and impact more lives.     

     The honoree noted that he was a product of the investment of his father, Alhaji Chief Ibrahim Butali prioritisd education and told him and his siblings that education was their only inheritance.

     Butali who thanked  guests, said education is an investment that will ultimately yield many fruits and urged the federal and state governments to pay more attention to the education sector, adding that experiential knowledge should be added to the course of knowledge in secondary schools as this would expose students to the practical aspect of  things learnt in class.

  • Olubadan, ex-Minister bag Lead City varsity doctorate degree

    Olubadan, ex-Minister bag Lead City varsity doctorate degree

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, former Minster of State for Defence  Erelu Olusola Obada and Obafemi Oye on Wednesday bagged Honorary Doctorate Degrees of Lead City University (LCU), Ibadan.

    They were decorated at the 16th convocation ceremonies of LCU because of their contributions to the progress and development of the nation.

    According to the institution, the reign of the monarch has brought remarkable peace to Ibadanland and Oyo State at large.

    The Vice Chancellor Prof. Kabir Adeyemo said the institution, which has been a beacon of knowledge for intellectually growth of students, has earned a name for itself as one of the most preferred private Universities in Nigeria.

    He stated that the institution is recognised as one of the 100 best private Universities in Nigeria and places among one of the best University in world ranking.

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    He urged graduands to embrace challenges with entrepreneurs mindset, see every obstacle as a potential opportunity and allow education they have acquired in the institution to be a guide for them towards success and fulfilment.

    In his convocation lecture, the Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission, Prof. Tunji Olaopa lamented that one of the obstacles to Nigeria’s development is conflict between  government and intellectual, scholarly and academic discourses, formations and outputs which has led to exclusive non-relation between institution and government.

    He urged graduands to transform their learning into higher search for mastery which will not only facilitate success in search for livelihood and professional fulfilment.

  • Forum thanks Tinubu over appointments of Olawande, Asefon Sunday

    Forum thanks Tinubu over appointments of Olawande, Asefon Sunday

    A  forum of former NANS leaders has thanked President Bola Tinubu over the appointments of Mr. Ayo Olawande as Minister of Youth (State) and Asefon Dayo Sunday as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement.

    The foruum spoke after a one-day conference  at the TOPRANK Hotels, Abuja.

    It also congratulated the new NANS President, Lucky Emenof. 

    The leaders appreciated President Tinubu on his choices of appointment particularly in the Youth and Student constituencies.

    In a statement by its convener, Wole Badmus, and Secretary, Olayinka Dada, the Forum said: ” We are particularly gladdened with the appointments of Mr. Ayo Olawande as Minister of Youth (State) and Asefon Dayo Sunday as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement.

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    “We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding it worthy to appoint real youths as Ministers in the Youth Ministry. This is a clear departure from the old norm of appointing elders without any knowledge of the current challenges our youths daily encounter in a fast emerging digital revolution sweeping across the globe.

    “We are therefore committed to putting these appointees on their toes by supporting them with required ideas that can positively impact on their official responsibilities and also justifying the enormous trust reposed in them by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    The Forum added that Nigeria urgently requires reforms especially in the education, health care, agriculture, transportation, petroleum, mining sectors and rejigging of the security architecture in meeting challenges of the modern world.

    It expressed satisfaction with interventions so far made by the President Tinubu as it affects Nigerian students.

    It said: “The student loan programme initiated by his administration within short days of assumption of office is very encouraging and his directive to Tertiary Institutions not to hike school fees amidst worsening economic situation of parents is timely and relieving.

    “With the appointment of one of us, Asefon Sunday, a former President of NANS, active community leader in his Ado-Ekiti Local Government, dedicated and hardworking youth, we are sure of unprecedented developmental strides through the experience and untainted commitment he will bring to bear. We like to remind Comrade Asefon Dayo Sunday that his new office is for all irrespective of political, tribal and religious beliefs. We will work with him in developing a master plan that will be beneficial to students.

    “Our Forum is committed to his success and the growth of Nigerian students who are his primary constituency since education is the light of the world and without it there will be total darkness”.

    It urged President Tinubu to consider policies targeted at the youth/ constituency in de-escalating mounting security challenges confronting the nation. “Empowering the youth and ensuring access to learning, deliberate drift of graduates into small and medium scale businesses are key to engaging these volatile constituencies to productive ventures that will help boost economic growth of the people as well as expanding the economic prosperity of our nation. We are hopeful that the President with his choices of appointments in these key areas will make a positive difference,” the forum said. 

    The forum continued: “Interestingly, as observed by the forum and haven been briefed on recent outcome of the NANS election which held at the old parade ground, Area 10, Abuja on December 1st, 2023, the forum wish to formally congratulate the newly elected leadership of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) where Com. Lucky Emenofe of College of Education, Warri, Delta State emerged as President and task the elected executives to be diligent in pursuing pro student advocacies and programs for the betterment of the students constituency.”

  • Urhobo youths congratulate Emonefe on emergence as NANS President

    Urhobo youths congratulate Emonefe on emergence as NANS President

    The President of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Youth wing and a prominent activist in the Urhobo nation, Comrade Dr. Kelly Efemena Umukoro, has congratulated Comrade Lucky Emonefe on his historic victory as the first Urhobo president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). 

    The Urhobo youth leader in a statement on Monday, said: “We are proud of this great feat by Comrade Lucky Emonefe and all Urhobo sons and daughters who worked against all odds, to ensure that Urhobo youth emerged as the country’s NANS president.”

    Recognising the significance of Emonefe’s victory, Comrade Umukoro added: “As a people, we believe that youths are not just the leaders of today but also leaders of tomorrow, and we believe in the capacity and ability of Comrade Lucky to reposition the National Association of Nigeria Students for effective engagement for the overall benefits of Nigerian students.”

    The UPU youth wing President further asserted his confidence in Emonefe’s ability to usher in a new era of leadership for Nigerian students. 

    “We are sure of his ability to give Nigerian students a new leadership, a leadership that they can trust, a leadership of renewed hope for the rights of Nigerian students,” he affirmed.

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    He said this message reflects the aspirations of the entire Urhobo nation and resonates with the need for a transformative and trustworthy leadership in NANS.

    Umukoro emphasised the Urhobo commitment, stating, “The President General of UPU and the youth leadership would support the administration of Comrade Lucky and give him the necessary support in order to take Nigerian students to a greater level.”

    In extending his wishes on behalf of himself and the entire nation, Comrade Umukoro concludes, “On behalf of myself and the entire Nigeria, I wish Mr. President success in his tenure.”

    “This message of goodwill encapsulates the hopes and aspirations of countless Nigerians who anticipate positive changes under Comrade Emonefe’s leadership. With support from all corners, the stage is set for a transformative era in NANS, paving the way for enhanced student welfare, rights, and empowerment.

    “Comrade Lucky Emonefe’s election as the first Urhobo NANS president serves as a beacon of hope for Nigerians and it’s worthy of celebration. Our prayer is that God grant him grace to excel,” he stated. 

    He also called on all other contestants to rally around the new NANS President  needed moral support to deliver on his mandate of repositioning students unionism.

  • I will lead inclusive, responsive student Parliament – Akinteye

    I will lead inclusive, responsive student Parliament – Akinteye

    The newly elected Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)  Afeez Akinteye has promised to lead an inclusive and responsive student parliament.

    He said he would work to ensure rights of students are adequately protected wherever they may be learning.

    Speaking after being declared winner, Akinteye, who is the immediate past Vice President (VP), External Affairs of the student body, said: “With immense humility and gratitude, I stand before you today as the newly elected Senate President of our dear and noble association, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

    “It has been months of rigorous electioneering campaigns and intense politicking, I stand before you today with a heart brimming with gratitude and humility as I accept the coveted position of NANS Senate President.

    “Your resounding support and trust in my vision have laid the foundation for what I believe will be transformative and impactful administration.

    “To this end, permit me to explore this latitude of space to extend my deepest appreciation to every individual who stood by me, campaigned with passion, and cast their votes in favor of the ideals we collectively believe in.

    Your commitment to this democratic process is the lifeblood of our association, and it reflects the vibrant spirit of a united student community.

    “As a well cultured Comrade, I will be ingrate if I fail to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my leaders, Senators, campaign team, supporters and allies in the course of this aspiration and path to a new NANS, your unwavering support and belief in our capacity for positive change has been a driving force throughout this journey.

    “Let it be in record that together we have laid the foundation for an administration that is not just about promises but about tangible actions and transformative impact.

    “Having won at the poll with 280 votes garnered across board, I want to reassure every student and stakeholder that I am fully committed to keeping the promises outlined in my manifesto.

    The core tenets of my administration will be transparency, inclusivity, and unwavering advocacy for the welfare and rights of Nigerian students.

    “Be rest assured that we will address the pressing challenges faced by students, advocate for quality education, and ensure that every student’s voice is not just heard but amplified on every platform.

    “To my fellow contestants, I extend my hand in unity. Your dedication to service and the vibrant ideas you brought to the table are integral to the democratic spirit of NANS. Let us now join forces, transcending individual pursuits, and work together to build an association that truly represents the collective voice of Nigerian students.

    “To my fellow contestants, thank you for engaging in a spirited and principled campaign. Your ideas and perspectives enriched the discourse, contributing to the robust democratic tradition that defines NANS, now, as we move forward, I invite each one of you to join hands in the spirit of unity for the betterment of our association, the election is already behind us, let us embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and shun anything faction.”

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    He added: “Dear Nigerian students, I am acutely aware of the weightiness of this responsibility and the expectations that come with this office. The role of the Senate President is one that requires prudence, inclusivity, and a deep understanding of the diverse needs of the Nigerian student body. Rest assured, I am fully committed to upholding these values as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

    “Our commitment to creating a NANS that advocates fiercely for the rights and welfare of students remains resolute. This is not just an administration; it is a movement for positive change, and every student is an integral part of this journey.

    “Under my leadership, we will embrace inclusivity, foster unity, and stand as a formidable force for the rights and well-being of Nigerian students. It is my firm belief that, together, we will usher in an era where every student feels heard, represented, and empowered.”

  • College shines in Conrad challenge

    College shines in Conrad challenge

    Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos, has qualified for the next round, semi-final of the Conrad Challenge.

    The school has three teams at the 2023/2024 competition which  are ACE, SAE and CHE.With their semi-final qualification, they are one step to the finals and two steps to NASA Space Station in the US.

    The Conrad Challenge is a purpose-driven innovation competition creating the next generation of entrepreneurs who will change the world.

    It involves  entrepreneurship and innovation through Aerospace & Aviation, Cyber-Technology & Security, Energy & Environment and Health & Nutrition.

    Team ACE is working on eradicating alcohol-induced cancer premising its endeavour on the scientific confirmation that alcohol is a direct cause of cancer.

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    Hence, the team is creating an app that contains enlightenment campaigns on how alcohol causes cancer, rehabilitation plans for alcohol-addicts, alternative sources of income for brewery workers and palliative care for cancer patients.

    For Team SAE, its project is based on the eradication of smoke addiction since smoking causes many health challenges like cancer, lung diseases, heart disease, etc. Team SAE is also creating an app that contains enlightenment campaigns on health risks associated with smoking, rehabilitation plans for those addicted to smoking and alternative sources of income for tobacco farmers.

    The third team,CHE is working on getting clean and healthy environments all over the world to mitigate the annual loss of millions of plant and animal lives to unclean and unhealthy environments via land, water and air pollution. Therefore, it is working on an creating an app that contains enlightenment campaigns on the benefits of having the  environment clean at all times and the health risks and dangers associated with unclean environment.