The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • JAMB to DE candidates: Upload results or forfeit admission

    JAMB to DE candidates: Upload results or forfeit admission

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has urged candidates who applied for admission in 2024 using the Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMB) and Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) to visit any approved computer based test centre (CBT) to upload their results as soon as they are released.

    The board warned that failure to do so would result in disqualification from consideration for the 2024 DE admission.

    The board said this in a statement signed by its Public Communication Advisor, Dr Fabian Benjamin.

    It added that any application marked as “awaiting result” (AR) that does not comply with the directive will be disqualified from admission consideration.

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    The statement reads: “All candidates who applied for admission through the 2024 Direct Entry (DE) mode using awaiting results from IJMB or JUPEB should urgently visit any approved CBT centre to upload their results as soon as they are released.

    “Failure to do so will result in disqualification from consideration for the 2024 DE admission.

    “During the 2024 DE registration period, some candidates registered with awaiting results from IJMB and JUPEB but have not yet uploaded these results.

    “Please note that no candidate will be considered for admission with awaiting results, similar to the policy for UTME candidates.

    “Any application marked as ‘awaiting result’ (AR) that does not comply with this directive will be disqualified from admission consideration.

    “It is essential that all candidate credentials are verified to determine their eligibility.

    “Candidates without uploaded results will be regarded as not having any results.

    “Additionally, candidates applying for the 2025 DE are encouraged to be proactive.

    “Ensure that your awaiting results are uploaded promptly upon release to change your status from AR and enhance your chances of admission.”

  • JAMB to direct entry candidates: upload your results or lose admission

    JAMB to direct entry candidates: upload your results or lose admission

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has urged candidates who applied for admission in 2024 using the Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMB) and Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) to visit any approved computer based test centre (CBT) to upload their results as soon as they are released.

    The board warned that failure to do so will result in disqualification from consideration for the 2024 DE admission.

    The board said this in a statement by its Public Communication Advisor, Dr Fabian Benjamin on Sunday in Abuja. 

    It added that any application marked as “awaiting result” (AR) that does not comply with the directive will be disqualified from admission consideration. 

    The statement reads: “All candidates who applied for admission through the 2024 Direct Entry (DE) mode using awaiting results from IJMB or JUPEB should urgently visit any approved CBT centre to upload their results as soon as they are released. Failure to do so will result in disqualification from consideration for the 2024 DE admission.

    “During the 2024 DE registration period, some candidates registered with awaiting results from IJMB and JUPEB but have not yet uploaded these results. Please note that no candidate will be considered for admission with awaiting results, similar to the policy for UTME candidates.

    “Any application marked as “awaiting result” (AR) that does not comply with this directive will be disqualified from admission consideration. 

    “It is essential that all candidate credentials are verified to determine their eligibility. 

    Candidates without uploaded results will be regarded as not having any results.

    “Additionally, candidates applying for the 2025 DE are encouraged to be proactive. Ensure that your awaiting results are uploaded promptly upon release to change your status from AR and enhance your chances of admission.”

  • Empowering Tomorrow: The bold vision of the Nigerian youth academy 

    Empowering Tomorrow: The bold vision of the Nigerian youth academy 

    By Dare Ojepe

    Amidst Africa’s vibrant landscape, where the energy of youth is both tangible and inspiring, stands a guiding light of hope and change: the Nigerian Youth Academy. With over 200 million citizens, Nigeria’s burgeoning population of young people is eager to redefine their futures. It is within this dynamic environment that the Nigerian Youth Academy sets forth an ambitious mission: to equip its youth with the skills necessary to thrive as influential contributors in the global economy.

    The demands of today’s global economy extend beyond conventional educational models. Proficiency in digital literacy, critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and adaptability has become critical in today’s job markets. In response to this evolution, the Nigerian Youth Academy has adopted a comprehensive strategy for empowering youth by focusing not only on technical expertise but also on developing the soft skills vital for success in modern workplaces.

    Central to their mission is a dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. By offering a wide variety of training programs across fields such as technology, engineering, arts, and business, the Academy ensures that every Nigerian youth has an opportunity to succeed, irrespective of their socioeconomic circumstances. This democratization of education is crucial to bridging opportunity gaps and establishing an equitable platform for all young Nigerians.

    Furthermore, the Academy’s collaborations with global tech leaders, educational institutions, and international bodies underscore the importance of partnerships in achieving success in our interconnected world. These collaborations expose Nigerian youth to the latest technologies and global best practices while nurturing a culture of innovation and creativity.

    Beyond technical skills, the Academy prioritizes nurturing leadership qualities and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. By inspiring youth not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities, the Academy will be instrumental in transitioning Nigeria from a nation of job seekers to one of job creators. This entrepreneurial mindset is reinforced by a strong mentorship program that connects young talent with industry leaders, offering invaluable guidance and insight.

    The story of the Nigerian Youth Academy is one of hope, resilience, and transformation. In a nation where the youth are the key to a prosperous future, the Academy will function as both a talent incubator and a change catalyst. As these young Nigerians join the global economy, they bring with them not only their acquired skills but also the bold ambition to reshape their world.

    Through its visionary efforts, the Nigerian Youth Academy will not only empower individuals but will also revitalize communities and inspire the nation. By doing so, it ensures that the brightest days for Nigeria’s youth are being shaped today. This is far more than an educational initiative; it is a movement that turns potential into empowerment, ambition into action, and dreams into reality. The world should take notice because the rise of Nigeria’s youth represents not just a local development but a global phenomenon.

    The Nigerian Youth Academy represents an innovative blueprint for developmental education within Africa. Its curriculum is designed to be future forward, providing students with a solid grounding in both emerging technologies and essential life skills. This approach is particularly relevant in a country as diverse as Nigeria, where cultural, social, and economic disparities can impede uniform access to education. By leveraging hybrid learning models and digital platforms, the Academy extends its reach to the remotest regions, ensuring no youth is left behind. This commitment to inclusivity not only bolsters national confidence but also serves as inspiration for other countries striving to harness their youthful potential.

    A cornerstone of the Academy’s model is its emphasis on community involvement and sustainable development. The institution encourages students to engage in projects that address local challenges, helping to instill a sense of responsibility and ownership over their country’s development. By integrating service learning and community projects into its programs, the Academy cultivates a generation that values social impact alongside personal success. These initiatives have the dual benefit of strengthening community ties while honing practical skills that students can apply in real-world scenarios. This holistic approach prepares individuals not just to enter the workforce but to become transformative, civic-minded leaders.

    The innovative spirit fostered by the Nigerian Youth Academy resonates deeply within its local communities, sparking a chain reaction of empowerment that permeates the very fabric of society. As students transition from learners to leaders, they carry with them the values of ingenuity and resilience instilled by the Academy. This has manifested in a burgeoning culture of local entrepreneurship, where graduates are not simply applying for jobs but are actively contributing to the economic landscape by launching startups and small businesses. These ventures often focus on solving community issues, such as sustainable agriculture, affordable healthcare, and renewable energy solutions, showcasing the Academy’s far-reaching influence and the tangible impact of its teachings.

    Beyond its immediate educational objectives, the Academy will operate as a hub for cultural exchange and global awareness, connecting Nigerian youth with their international peers. Through exchange programs, international collaborations, and virtual interactions, students gain a global perspective that enriches their understanding of cultural diversity and global challenges. This exposure not only broadens their horizons but also contributes to a more interconnected and cooperative world community. By cultivating global citizens equipped with both local pride and international acumen, the Nigerian Youth Academy stands at the forefront of a movement that recognizes the power of youth as a driving force for positive global change. This dynamic interplay ensures that Nigeria’s youth, empowered by their education, are poised to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.

    As Nigeria stands on the brink of demographic and economic transformation, the Nigerian Youth Academy will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s trajectory. By investing in the education and empowerment of its youth, Nigeria lays the foundation for sustained growth and innovation. The Academy’s vision extends beyond immediate vocational training; it is about building a resilient generation capable of navigating and thriving in an ever-evolving landscape. The ripple effects of this endeavor promise to extend beyond Nigeria’s borders, positioning the nation as a leader in youth-driven development and a beacon of progress across Africa and the world.

    _-Ojepe serves as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth Engagement_

  • Olu of Warri canvasses sustainable youth empowerment for economic growth

    Olu of Warri canvasses sustainable youth empowerment for economic growth

    The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has reiterated belief in the empowerment of youths with the right cultural African values,  leadership and entrepreneurship skills acquisition as a veritable tool in driving a sustainable growth and development of nations across Africa continent.

    Ogiame Atuwatse III, reaffirmed this in Warri on Wednesday at a dinner in honour of the 2025 Elevate Africa Fellowship, (a group of young vibrant and innovative minds, drawn from selected African countries) who had been on tour of some states in Nigeria, as part of the exposure to learn about the  culture, education and business prospects of partner nations.

    The members of the Elevate Africa Fellowship had earlier in the day paid homage to the monarch at his palace (Aghofen) in Warri where they were treated to the rich-cultural display of the Iwere kingdom and made presentations of gifts to the traditional ruler.

    Speaking at the dinner at his Warri residence, Ogiame Atuwatse III maintained that no nation can make any meaningful progress without a conscious and deliberate youth empowerment program that would take into cognizance African uniqueness, interns of environment and cultural values.

    According to the monarch; “It is imperative to bring the people to Warri Kingdom so that they can identify with our people to show them the aspect of the culture which symbolises African identity”.

    Her Royal Majesty Olori Ogiame Atuwatse III, welcomed Elevate Africa Fellowship members, noting that as ambassadors of their various countries they were invited to the kingdom to show them different aspects of African’s  culture in Warri Kingdom. 

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    She said: “As founder of of Elevate Africa, it is right for us to bring them to Warri Kingdom and show them our culture. Our culture is our identity, if you don’t know who you are, you don’t know your identity”.

    Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Elevate Africa Fellowship, Daniel Ikuenobe, described Elevate Africa, an initiative of His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, as a social impact organization working in collaboration with the media and other development partners like Royal Iwere Foundation which is run by Her Royal Majesty Olori Ogiame Atuwatse III. 

    He clarified that while the Royal Iwere Foundation (RIF) focuses on empowerment, environment and  education of Warri community and its environs, Elevate Africa works globally with special focus in promoting Africa continent.

     According to him, Elevate Africa deals with leadership, trade and investment and  cultural heritage needs of the people in the continent. He said:” We all as  a group came together to identify career leaders across the continent and do transformative work”. 

    Bola Edward, Chief Executive officer and Co-founder of Proud Africa Root who is a part of Elevate Africa Fellowship said, they create education content and entertainment for children and teenagers who are future leaders. 

    She said:” We raise leaders who  Africans have been hoping for and we have to start from the cradle- the children”.

    Other members of the fellowship who also spoke include Mohammad Bihan from Egypt, Amayan from Tunisa and Grace Nelson from Ghana. 

    They all expressed joy to be  part of  Elevate Africa Fellowship just as they promised to contribute their knowledge in the training, education and transformation of human race especially Africans for good.

    The August visitors in the month of March who specialize in different fields of human endeavours, expressed joy to have visited Nigeria especially Warri Kingdom  to  be part of Elevate Africa Fellowship to transform the people for good.

  • 100 students bag scholarships in FCET Umunze

    100 students bag scholarships in FCET Umunze

    No fewer than 100 students of the Federal College of Education (Technical) Umunze, Anambra State have been awarded scholarships for the study of degree and Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes.

    Thirty-four students won the Federal Government Education Bursary Awards worth N300,000 per student in each session and 55 others were sponsored for three-year NCE programme by the Chairman, Orumba South Local Government Area, Shedrack Azubuike, through the Nwabugo Empowerment Foundation.

    Also, seven students of the college benefitted from the scholarship scheme of the Chief Executive Officer of Seahorse Lubricants, Chief Chukwuebuka Onunkwo, who awarded scholarships totalling N10 million to 50 indigent students in Anambra State, with each student receiving N200,000.

  • New makerspace inaugurated to enhance career prospects

    New makerspace inaugurated to enhance career prospects

    By Omolara Akinloye 

    A 25-square-meter learning space equipped with innovative digital equipment was launched on Thursday in Lagos.

     The training project offers hands-on Information Technology (IT) training and entrepreneurial skills to high-school graduates in Lagos. 

    With a focus on female participation, this 12-week intensive programme unlocks economic opportunities for 400 youth (aged 18 to 24) from low-income families. 

    This three-year training and internship program equips school graduates with practical and digital skills crucial to thrive in the 21st century characterized by technological advancements and digitization. 

    “While the digital revolution has transformed societies and economies, it has also widened gender and social inequalities. The United Nations estimates that women account for only 22% of STEM jobs. To narrow this disparity, BeMINT_Nigeria encourages female participation and eases access to digital learning for youth from underserved communities. The user-centric training project advances inclusive economic participation and fosters crucial 21st century skills among the next generation of Nigerians”, Dr. Nina Smidt, Siemens Stiftung’s CEO and spokesperson of the Board said. 

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    At the heart of this project is the new makerspace that provides a hub for educational advancement and community engagement. 

    It offers easy access to 3D technologies, tools and materials for the participants to realize their initial ideas and prototypes.

    The German Consul General in Lagos Mr. Weert Börner said: “Investments in digital education are the key to economic change. Facilitating digital infrastructure and improving training opportunities that broaden economic avenues for young Nigerians, especially young women, is a core element of Nigerian-German cooperation. 70% of the country’s population is under 35, providing a unique basis for boosting Nigeria’s digital economy.” 

    Over the course of the next couple of years, nine batches consisting of 45 participants each are introduced to three major focus areas: IT, vocation orientation, and entrepreneurship. Each participant receives comprehensive, multi-disciplinary training, gaining practical experience in working with digital Siemens Stiftung 

    “We are building on the success of the project’s first phase, launched in 2022, which has produced confident and well-trained alumni now working at reputed international companies like Google and Microsoft, as well as Nigerian SMEs and startups. 

    “The current batches will benefit from hands-on mentoring by the alumni network, gaining valuable guidance as they embark on their professional journeys,” Ms Chinenye Ezeakor, Co-founder of EAE added. 

    160 teachers will undergo training in the makerspace – enabling them to take their learning back to their classrooms and implement innovative practices, this ensures more students benefit from this project. The training culminates in the graduates receiving certification by the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce (AHK) in Nigeria confirming their training to German standards, thus advancing their career prospects. 

    BeMINT – MINT is the German abbreviation for STEM: Mathematics, IT, science and technology) is sponsored by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by the internationally operative foundation Siemens Stiftung and Nigerian NGO Empowering Africans through Education Initiative (EAE).

  • Ex-minister inducted into UNICAL’s Hall of Fame

    Ex-minister inducted into UNICAL’s Hall of Fame

    Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has expressed excitement over her induction into the Hall of Fame of her alma mater, the University of Calabar (UNICAL), for service to humanity.

    She promised to rally her colleagues to equip the university’s medical centre.

    Edu, who spoke on the sidelines of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the university, said her appreciation was unlimited “because this will spur me to do more for humanity”.

    Other eminent Nigerians inducted are Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of the Representatives, Rt.Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu.

    She said: “To support the school’s infrastructure projects, I hereby announce that the Class 2009 of the Medical School will be contributing to the completion and equipping of the new medical centre for University of Calabar and we will be doing that by supporting initially with N15 million. They have asked me to make this pledge on their behalf.”

    She also paid glowing tribute to President Bola Tinubu “for his support and fatherly guidance”.

    Her words: “Thank you to the university’s esteemed management and staff for this incredible honour. I am truly humbled to receive this award, and I am grateful for the recognition in the hall of fame.

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    “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to my vice chancellor and her team, the Student Union Government and my lecturers who have always supported me throughout my journey, and built a leadership foundation for my public service.

    “I am completely overwhelmed with gratitude and joy. This award is not just a recognition of my own efforts, but also a testament to the fact that more responsibilities have been given to me with far-reaching impact in Nigeria and the globe.”

    In her welcome address, Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Pro. Florence Obire, counted the journey of UNICAL from its days as the campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and when it took off in 1975 as a full-fledged university, and described the journey as “50 years of resilience, 50 years of impactful knowledge and service to humanity.

    “We are very proud to have the Senate President of Nigeria as one of us. We are proud to have the Deputy Speaker of the House of Reps, the governor of Cross River State, ministers, senators and the Deputy Governor Cross River State. We are very proud of my daughter, Dr. Betta Edu, for always making the university proud,” she added.

  • College provost bags Anambra Education Icon Award

    College provost bags Anambra Education Icon Award

    The Provost, Federal College of Education (Technical) Umunze Anambra State, Prof. Theresa Obumneme Okoli, has been awarded the Education Icon Award, the highest accolade from her home state, Anambra.

    The award, organised by the Anambra Man of the Year Group, was in recognition of her contribution to learning as an erudite scholar, the development of education in the state through her leadership as provost, and relentless advocacy for gender inclusiveness in the larger society.

    While Prof. Okoli won the prestigious Education Icon of the Year, the former Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Charles Esimone was honoured as the Public Servant of the Year. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof Benjamin Ozumba.

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    On the honour list was a Cambridge University Postdoctoral Fellow, Senior Visiting Fellow, Harvard University, Prof. P.N. Okeke, who received the award as the Scientist of the Decade. Also, Prof Joseph Chukwurah Ezigbo won the coveted Man of the Year, while the Board Chairman of Keystone Bank, Lady Ada Chukwudozie received the Woman of the Year award.

    The chairman of the occasion, Dr. Chike Obidigbo, vouched for the integrity of the awards, stressing that awardees were selected strictly on merit. According to him, there was no political undertone or monetary inducement for the selection of the awardees, but a due diligence scrutiny of their work and contributions to the society.

    The colourful event featured a red carpet reception where each awardee was invited to the ceremonial podium for public acclamation, citation and conferment of the award.

    Dozens of dignitaries, who have made their mark in different sectors of the economy, attended the event.

    The keynote address was presented by a seasoned scholar from the Department of Linguistics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Prof Cecilia Amaoge Eme, who spoke for over 40 minutes in flawless Igbo Language. Her presentation held the audience spellbound, as she appealed to parents to save Igbo Language from extinction by communicating with their children in native language.

    A veteran diplomat with over 30 years management -level experience in the Nigerian Foreign Service, Ambassador Ajulu Okeke was celebrated with a Lifetime Achievement Award. She was the first female Ambassador Consul General in Nigeria.

  • Trinity varsity confers doctorate degree on architects council boss

    Trinity varsity confers doctorate degree on architects council boss

    The Trinity University (TU) has conferred honorary doctorate degree on President of Architects Registration Council of Nigeria Dipo Ajayi.

    The private university located in Lagos, had at the weekend during its third convocation ceremony conferred the degree on Ajayi, a leading architect in the country and a businessman.

    TU had graduated a total of 122 gradaunds, among who were 28 First Class Honours, while its best graduating student, Animashaun Adedolapo, clinched a cumulative grade point average of 4.95.

    Speaking on the sideline of the ceremony, the school’s vice chancellor, Prof. Clement Kolawole, said Ajayi’s choice was based on merit and Trinity’s desire advanced the course of education in the country.

    “We are glad that our university considered our nominations and proud that we conferred the award on the president of architects’ council in Nigeria.

    “He is the only awardee this year and we are proud to associate with him.

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    “I met Sir Dipo Ajayi at the Ekiti State University Governing Council about two years ago and I have watched him closely, listened to him and delighted the kind of man he is.

     “This man has not only been successful in his profession and businesses, he is also a good family man, who has been positively impacting lives.

    “Sir Ajayi is a man of principle, who is also committed to philanthropy, who has not been involved in any scandal.

    “He is one of such model we at Trinity University wish to present to our university communities including staff, mentees and students, who have a lot to learn from.

    “Within the short period of our interaction, we have seen excellent spirit in him and that is one of our cardinal goals at Trinity.

    “We actually want a model that we can showcase to our students.

    “We also want someone that can give us ideas on how to grow our university.”

    The awardee, who appreciated the university for the honour, said it was a call for him to do more in his service to humanity.

    “To receive this award is both a personal milestone and a call to greater service. It is a reminder that the written and spoken word can shape societies, inspire minds, and ignite transformation.

    “In an era where knowledge is constantly evolving, this recognition fuels my passion for contributing to intellectual discourse, literature and human progress.’’

  • ‘How we expanded from 40 courses to 120 in 20 years’

    ‘How we expanded from 40 courses to 120 in 20 years’

    The Vice Chancellor, Lead City University (LCU), Ibadan, Prof. Kabiru Adeyemo, has narrated what he described as success strategies of his institution, which has seen the school expanding its courses of study from 40 to 120 under his watch.

    Prof. Kabiru Adeyemo, who was joined by other top management staff at a media briefing in Ibadan, said sheer determination, commitment, unity of purpose, cohesion and great dedication were key factors that have helped the institution move on the trajectory of growth and greatness since the 20 years of its establishment.

    He spoke in his office, as part of activities marking the university’s 20th anniversary.

    The VC, who said the management aside operating an open door policy, also ensured that what must be done is done to address every issue as it comes.

    He said the event was not to celebrate just two decades of excellence, but to reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought the university to its present state and to chart a path for an even greater future.

    On how he has steered the affairs of the institution, Prof. Adeyemo said the university has continued to uphold high academic standards, earning full accreditation from the National University Commission (NUC) and other relevant professional bodies.

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    He added that the move was to ensure that graduates of the institution remain competitive both locally and internationally.

    He said: “Under my leadership, LCU expanded its programmes from 40 to 120, introducing disciplines like medicine and surgeries, doctor of pharmacy, doctor of physiotherapy, dentistry, surveying and geo-informatics, urban and regional planning, building, medical laboratory science, engineering, anatomy, public health, tourism and hospitality studies and other programmes in across the nine faculties.

    “Our programmes have received full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other relevant professional bodies, reaffirming the high standards of our academic offerings.”

    Prof. Adeyemo added: “The relationship among the members of the management is that we have unity of purpose. We are united and we are actually dedicated. We believe that if things must be done, it has to be done.

    “And we have a very good support from our council. The Chairman of Council is a professor who believes in this profession and believes that we should do it right. As a professor, you know what it entails.

    “So, this work commitment is very, very high. These are the things that make us stand out. We also run an open door policy. The door of the vice-chancellor’s office is open. You need not to register before you see the VC. And my phone is always on 24 hours.

    “The students are here because of us. And there is a contractual relationship between us and the students, which we must help to fulfill. And we don’t even see them as our students, we see them as our children, so that at the end of the day, because these are the leaders of Nigeria. Yes, not only Nigeria, the world.

    “And all of us here, we have our children there. My children are here, the children of the registrar and many other staff members  are also here, doing well.

    “So, Lead City University is a great university that has produced eminent students, graduates, across the globe.”

    He added that the institution has in the last 20 years committed to its mission of producing graduates who are job creators and not job seekers.