The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • DT-Lighthouse Creative Academy calls for investment in creative education programs

    DT-Lighthouse Creative Academy calls for investment in creative education programs

    A leading creative academy, Deep Thoughts Lighthouse Creative Academy has urged the government, corporate organisations, and private sector stakeholders to invest heavily in creative education programs, stating that such investments will not only empower young Nigerians but also contribute significantly to national economic development.

    Speaking in an interview, the founder, Opeyemi Akintunde emphasised that creative education has the potential to unlock massive opportunities for Nigerian youths, if only it receives the necessary attention and funding.

    “For too long, our educational system has focused solely on traditional subjects like mathematics, English, and sciences, while creative subjects such as filmmaking, creative writing, photography, animation, and digital storytelling are either ignored or treated as hobbies,” Akintunde said. “It’s time to change that mindset and recognise creative education as a serious pathway to economic growth.”

    Akintunde explained that the global creative economy is now one of the fastest-growing sectors, contributing trillions of dollars to the global GDP. Countries that have deliberately invested in creative education — such as the United Kingdom, South Korea, and the United States — have reaped enormous economic benefits, including job creation, export earnings, and global cultural influence.

    “Nollywood, for example, is one of Nigeria’s biggest cultural exports, but many of the people in the industry are self-taught,” Akintunde noted. “Imagine how much better our creative output would be if we had a system where children were trained in creative skills right from primary and secondary school.”

    The Deep Thoughts Lighthouse Creative Academy, established in 2018, has already trained and mentored over 3,000 children and teenagers, equipping them with skills in scriptwriting, acting, filmmaking, editing, content creation, and creative entrepreneurship.

    Akintunde said the results have been remarkable, with some of her students already earning income from freelance creative work and digital content creation even before leaving secondary school.

    “Creativity is a global currency now,” she said. “Young Nigerians are bursting with creative talent, but without proper training, guidance, and investment, much of that potential goes to waste or is misdirected into unproductive ventures.”

    She also highlighted the role of creative education in addressing social issues and shaping positive values. According to Akintunde, creative storytelling can be used to educate young people on issues like sexual abuse, drug addiction, and mental health, while also promoting positive cultural values.

    “At Deep Thoughts Lighthouse Creative Academy, we don’t just teach creative skills — we also provide life mentorship. Many of the children who come to our academy find a safe space to express their emotions, build confidence, and discover their purpose,” she said.

    Akintunde stressed that public-private partnerships are crucial if Nigeria is to build a sustainable creative education ecosystem. She called on the Federal Ministry of Education, state governments, private schools, NGOs, and media organisations to collaborate in creating and funding structured creative education programs across the country.

    “We need creative education to be mainstreamed — not just as an extra-curricular activity, but as a core part of the curriculum,” she urged. “Schools should have fully equipped creative labs where children can learn video editing, photography, podcasting, animation, and digital storytelling, alongside their regular subjects.”

    Read Also: NESG academy launches mental health awareness initiative 

    The academy founder also pointed out that investment in creative education would directly contribute to economic diversification and youth employment, two areas where Nigeria continues to struggle.

    “The creative industry is already a major employer, but it has the potential to employ millions more if we prepare our young people properly,” Akintunde explained. “In the digital age, content is king — and with the right investment, Nigeria can become Africa’s number one hub for content creation, not just in entertainment but also in advertising, education, and digital marketing.”

    She highlighted the success stories of Lighthouse alumni, some of whom have gone on to work as scriptwriters, content creators, filmmakers, and social media managers both within Nigeria and abroad. Many of them, Akintunde said, are already earning income from freelance creative gigs, contributing to their families and even sponsoring their own education.

    “This is the power of creative education — it creates self-reliant, solution-driven youths who can generate income, solve problems, and positively influence society,” she said.

    Akintunde also warned that neglecting creative education would widen the unemployment gap and leave millions of creative youths disillusioned, vulnerable to crime, substance abuse, and migration traps.

    “If we do not invest in these young people’s creative potential, we are pushing them into the streets where they will seek other means — often illegal or destructive — to express themselves,” she cautioned.

    In conclusion, she called on corporate organisations, foundations, and international development agencies to adopt creative education programs as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, noting that the benefits would extend beyond individual empowerment to national economic development.

    “Creative education is not charity — it’s a smart economic investment. The returns, in terms of job creation, cultural export, and innovation, will benefit everyone, including the private sector itself,” Akintunde said.

  • FUOYE students, group fault SSANU’s call for suspension of VC

    FUOYE students, group fault SSANU’s call for suspension of VC

    Students of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Ekiti State have faulted the recent call by the National Women Committee of Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) for the sack of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi Fasina.

    The students, during a solidarity protest yesterday at the university campus, warned the SSANU women wing not to allow itself to be  used in the hands of ‘enemies of the university’, who do not mean well for the institution.

    The SSANU Women had during a news conference held in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, called for the suspension of Prof Fasina over an allegation of sexual harassment levelled by a senior staff member of the university, Mrs Folasade Adebayo.

    But, reacting yesterday, the Students’ Union Government Vice-President, Comrade Olaniyan Eniola, said there was no logic in the call for the suspension of the VC when investigation was ongoing on the issue.

    Eniola alleged that the attack on the VC was orchestrated by some elements with vested interest to disrupt the university’s peaceful ambience and its unparalleled progress through campaign of calumny against Prof. Fasina.

    Read Also: Bomb for Badenoch

    He said: “We are appalled by the disgraceful actions of a so-called union body, the SSANU National Women’s Committee, led by Mrs Ijeoma Kalu, which is demanding the suspension of our highly respected Vice Chancellor over a completely unfounded allegation.

    “It is disappointing that these women, who should be expected to uphold truth and integrity, have chosen instead to spread falsehood and engage in media blackmail. We were shocked to read how they publicly disgraced themselves, calling for the removal of our beloved VC without any factual basis.

    “The Vice Chancellor has already clarified that Mrs Adebayo, in her official petition to the Governing Council, never mentioned sexual harassment. Even in her statements before the Nigerian Police, which investigated the matter, there was no mention of sexual harassment.

    So where did the SSANU Women’s Committee fabricate this claim from? On what basis are they demanding his suspension? This is clearly a politically-motivated smear campaign, which is doomed to fail.”

    Eniola warned SSANU and its affiliates to desist from further interference, urging them to allow the university’s governing council to complete its investigation without external pressures.

    He added: “It is unfortunate that rather than focusing on the incredible progress FUOYE has made under this administration, some individuals are spreading baseless and damaging narratives. We strongly caution against the interference of uninvited groups seeking to disrupt the university’s stability.

    “This issue must be handled legally and fairly, without external manipulations aimed at tarnishing the university’s reputation.

    “FUOYE stands as a beacon of excellence in Nigeria’s educational landscape, and its integrity must be protected at all costs. We trust that the truth will prevail and that this great university’s dignity, integrity and reputation will remain untarnished.”

    He reaffirmed the students’ solidarity with the Vice Chancellor, stating that they would resist any attempt to derail the institution’s progress.

    In a similar development, the Campaign for Justice and Fair Play has raised the alarm over alleged plot by the National Women Committee of Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities to destabilise the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE).

    The group’s Chairman, Chief  Calistus Jemade, in a statement in Ado-Ekiti yesterday said the alleged plot was driven by vested interests threatened by the unparalleled achievements of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Fasina.

    Jemade alleged that the SSANU Women Committee had been orchestrating a campaign to unseat Professor Fasina over an unsubstantiated allegation of sexual harassment made by a university staff member, Folashade Adebayo.

    He described the plot as a “calculated political attack” purposefully designed to discredit the VC and undermine his leadership, saying “the sponsors of this campaign are not seeking justice but are actively working to destabilise the university”.

    He called on the institution’s Chairman of the Governing Council to take decisive action and expedite ongoing probe into the allegation, warning that allowing the plot to succeed could jeopardise the stability and future of FUOYE.

    This is a calculated political attack designed to discredit a leader who has worked tirelessly to improve FUOYE. These individuals, motivated by self-interest, are determined to take control of the university’s leadership at any cost.

    “We urge the FUOYE’s Senate, alumni, staff and students  to be vigilant and resist any attempt to sow discord and destabilise the institution.

    “Professor Fasina is a proven reformer, a strong advocate for workers welfare, and a high-achieving administrator. Any attempt to undermine his leadership should be strongly opposed by all who value the progress of this institution”, he added.

  • Reps move to abolish BSc/HND dichotomy

    Reps move to abolish BSc/HND dichotomy

    The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Federal Polytechnics Act to increase the qualification for appointment of Rectors of Polytechnics and empower them to award Bachelor of Technology, instead of Higher National Diploma (HND).

    The bill is sponsored by the Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen and Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education, Fuad Laguda.

    When passed and assented to, the law will eliminate the discrepancies in the B.Sc/HND controversy, while also increasing the qualification for appointment as Rectors of polytechnics

    Leading the debate on the bill, Laguda described the Federal Polytechnics Act Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 as an Act of the National Assembly seeking to establish polytechnics in various parts of the country to provide full-time courses in technology, applied science management and other fields of studies and to make provisions for the general administration of such polytechnics.

    He said as a way of driving efficiency and advancement of polytechnic education in Nigeria, the Act was amended in 2019 to increase the retirement age of staff of polytechnics and harmonise the tenure of office of the Rectors and other Principal Officers of Polytechnics in Nigeria.

    He said the current Bill is to further amend the Act to meet up with the demand of the ever-changing world while adhering to the international best practices.

    Read Also: Bomb for Badenoch

    According to him, “this Bill seeks to review and enlarge the membership of the council with the inclusion of representatives of technical institutional bodies like NBTE and Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), enlarge the scope of functions of Federal Polytechnics in Nigeria with clearer and result-oriented administrative structure.”

    He explained that clause 2 of the bill is seeking to amend Section 3 of the Principal Act to include representatives of NBTE and MAN in the council of every polytechnic.

    He said further that clause 3 of the amendment seeks to amend section 8 which to raise the bar in respect of the qualifications of those seeking to occupy the position of the Rector of federal polytechnics.

    Also, clause 4 will amend section 15 of the Principal Act, which seeks to enlarge the powers of the academic Board to among other award Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) Hons.

    Speaker of the House Abbas Tajudeen, who is the main sponsor of the bill, said it was an initiative from the National Board for Technical Education as part of efforts to eliminate the dichotomy existing between holders of B.Sc and HND.

    He said the amendment will abolish HND while the polytechnics will be empowered to award Bachelors of Technology, adding that the law will also increase the qualification for Rectors of the institution to a minimum of PhD.

    The Speaker explained that the amendment will not affect the award of OND by the polytechnics as it will continue to exist for low level manpower.

  • Better days for teachers

    Better days for teachers

    The surge in the population of school children and increase in the number of both government and private schools present a complex challenge for the education system. After education stakeholders expressed outrages, the Federal Government, states and firms are responding to shortage of public school teachers and inadequate training, ASSISTANT EDITOR BOLA OLAJUWON reports.

    State of teachers’ recruitment, training

    It is no longer news that Nigeria has a shortage of public school teachers and inadequate training to equip those manning the classrooms in 21st century skills. The two key challenges are mostly impacting the quality of education at the basic education level. Many public schools are understaffed with poorly trained teachers, resulting in poor pupils learning outcomes and high student-teacher ratios.

    A 2024 survey by Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) found that there was a shortage of 194,876 teachers in public primary schools across the country. This is, however, a reflection of the global challenge facing the education sector. According to a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) statistics, the world urgently needs 44 million teachers by 2030 to make the Sustainable Development Goals a reality. The teacher shortage is impacting sub-Saharan Africa the most, where an estimated 15 million new teachers are needed by 2030.

    The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) had revealed that 16 states failed to conduct recruitment between 2018 and 2022. The NUT, however, lauded the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos and Katsina states for recruiting teachers during the period under review.

    The Registrar of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Prof. Josiah Ajiboye, flayed “the shortage of qualified teachers”, stressing that it was more pronounced in rural areas, further worsening educational inequality. He said:  “The surge in the population of school children, and the increase in the number of schools in both government and private present a complex challenge for the education system. The availability and quality of qualified teachers are crucial in ensuring students receive quality education. However, the shortage of qualified teachers is a concerning issue in Nigeria for several reasons.”

    The teacher-student ratios in Nigerian primary and post-primary schools are disproportionate. UBEC stated that 47 million pupils are enrolled in 171,027 private and public primary and junior secondary schools, comprising 79,775 students in public schools and 91,252 in private schools. It added that 354,651 are teaching in early childhood facilities, while 915,593 are employed in primary schools, and 416,291 in junior secondary schools.

    The situation, experts said, is negatively impacting on  learning in basic schools as several pupils consistently skip important subjects owing to lack of teachers in some subjects. It is also impeding proper intellectual growth of pupils and slows their performance, experts further said.

    The National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Mr. Titus Amba, expressed concern about the shortage of teachers, adding that many governors ignored the advice of the union, which pleaded that retired teachers should be replaced with new ones.

     “Recruitment of teachers lies in the hands of the state governments. A significant number of teachers have left the service, and till now, there is no plan to replace them,” Amba said.

    To achieve the necessary teacher-pupil ratio, the nation is short about 200,000 instructors, according to TRCN. “This scarcity exacerbates already-existing educational gaps by disproportionately affecting rural and underprivileged communities. Learning results are severely impacted by the teacher shortage.

    New teachers’ recruitment drive

    However, in the first quarter of this year, some states are correcting the noticeable shortages in recruitment and capacity-building for educators. Some of the recruitment exercise extended from late last year to this year. Though the figures of teachers being recruited are abysmal, it is an indication for other states to embark on urgent recruitments drive to enhance quality of education and pupils’ learning outcomes.

    Aside the Federal Government, below are some of the states that recruited teachers and those in the process of recruiting.

    Fed Govt to recruit 74,000 teachers

    The Federal Government late last year said it was considering the employment of 2,000 teachers per state yearly to address shortage of teachers in the country. The total figure from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will be 74,000.

    According to the Ministry of Education, the government was considering December 2024 as deadline for the implementation of the policy.

    This was disclosed in a roadmap of the ministry in Abuja. The roadmap state: “States to recruit minimum of 2,000 qualified teachers and certified by the TRCN annually; the Minister of State for Education to meet with the state governors and get their buy in.”

    Read Also: Akpabio, Akpoti-Uduaghan and politics of allegations

    The ministry set December 2024 as the deadline for implementation of the first phase. The other phases are expected to continue this year.

    Lagos

    The Lagos State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), maintaining its record of periodic recruitment, late last year embarked on recruitment of more teachers specialising in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, as well as to improve the teacher-to-student ratio in schools. 

    In the last few years, thousands of teachers have been recruited by the state government. The government has pledged to continue recruitment as the need arises.

    The TESCOM actively collaborated with the six educational districts in the state to address the shortages created by teachers retiring due to age or years of service. 

    The objective of this is to achieve at least one teacher for every 30 students, a goal towards, which the state government is progressing. 

    The commission has maintained a targeted approach in hiring educators and under the current administration of the state government, significant efforts have been made to enhance the educational landscape by providing comprehensive training for teachers, thereby boosting their effectiveness in educating students. 

    Kwara

    Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has approved a request of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) to hire 1,800 teachers, 100 non-teaching staff and 200 security guards to promote safer school environment.

    This initiative aims to address the shortage of teaching staff, particularly in rural areas.

    Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Bello Tauheed Abubakar, revealed in a statement that the recruitment process would prioritise teachers of STEM subjects, as well as specific Art and Commercial subjects, to bridge the resource gap in under-served schools.

    Ondo

    Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the employment of 1,010 teachers for secondary schools in the state. The governor’s approval came after the completion of the recruitment process by the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), which screened thousands of applicants last year.

    In a statement, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said the list of successful candidates will be published online on Monday. He said it will also be displayed at the premises of TESCOM headquarters and zonal offices across the state from Tuesday.

    According to Adeniyan, only successful candidates are to begin their documentation immediately.

    Due to the shortage of teachers in the state public schools, Aiyedetiwa last year approved the recruitment of 1,000 secondary school and 1,000 primary school teachers.

    “While the final list for the secondary school candidates was approved by the governor on Friday, that of the primary school candidates is currently undergoing its finishing touches,” Adeniyan added.

     Nasarawa

    Nasarawa State government announced it has employed no fewer than 10,000 teachers for primary and secondary schools to enhance manpower in the education sector of the state. The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, said apart from the over 10,000 teachers recruited for both primary and secondary schools, an unspecified number of lecturers had also been employed in tertiary institutions in the state.

    He said: “Concerning the employment of teachers in primary and secondary schools in Nasarawa State, the story has been very positive. When Governor Sule came on board in 2019, he met a category of teachers called ‘engaged staff’ by the previous administration, about 1,500 of them. He immediately gave them permanent and pensionable jobs.

    “He further announced the recruitment of 2,000 teachers who also received permanent jobs. After a while, an additional 2,500 secondary school teachers were employed to ensure that we have sufficient teachers in the state.

    “We have just concluded the recruitment exercise of 4,700 teachers for our primary schools.”

    Zamfara

    Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal reportedly approved 2,000 new teaching positions to strengthen the education sector.

    According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, the recruitment drive fulfilled promises made during the governor’s campaign. It forms part of the administration’s efforts to overhaul the education sector, which ranks second on the government’s priority list.

    “The government will employ 2,000 qualified teachers to help improve and revitalize the education sector.

    “The recruitment will be carried out in phases to ensure that only the best candidates are employed to address critical needs in our schools,” he said.

    The first phase, scheduled for the first quarter of 2025, will focus on hiring 500 teachers specialising in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, ICT, and Entrepreneurship studies.

    The recruitment initiative is part of the Accelerating Girls’ Education in Nigeria (AGILE) programme aimed at addressing long-standing deficiencies in Zamfara’s education system.

    Oyo

    The Nigeria Union of Teachers, Oyo State, hailed Governor Seyi Makinde-led government for recruiting 19,500 teachers in five years.

    The union, in a statement by the NUT Chairman, Oladimeji Raji and the Secretary, Salami Olukayode, noted that the appointment of 5,000 teachers in his first term and 14,500 since the inception of his second term into the state primary and secondary schools was noteworthy.

    The union said the ripple effects of the recruitment were that it would address the problems of inadequate manpower in the education sector and promote teaching and learning.

    The statement read, “Your disposition towards turning the tide of the education system of Oyo State remains unprecedented and unmatched not only in the annals of recruitment history of our dear state in recent times, but also across the entire 36 states of the Federation, including the Federal Capital Territory.”

    Abia

    The Abia State Government has announced plans for the massive recruitment of teachers for primary and secondary schools across the state, as part of efforts to strengthen the education sector.

    Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this in Umuahia while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

    Kanu revealed that the state Ministry of Education has commenced the enforcement of its Out-of-School Children Policy initiative.

    Osun

    The Osun government late last year approved the recruitment of 5,000 teachers and 250 education officers.

    Olawale Rasheed, the chief press secretary to Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, said the recruitment would fill existing vacancies in the state’s teaching service.

    He said the recruitment was sequel to the conclusion of a needs assessment conducted by the government in 2023.

    He said the council directed the state education ministry to fast-track the process of recruiting qualified and competent hands to enhance teaching and learning.

    Teachers training

    Fed Govt trains 6,000 teachers in AI pedagogy

    The Federal Government recently unveiled a five-week training for 6,000 senior secondary school teachers in Artificial Intelligence Pedagogy across the country.

    At the official kick-off of the training in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, called on the participants to take advantage of the training to contribute to national development.

    The event also featured the unveiling of the Minimum Standards for Senior Secondary Education.

    Represented by the Director, Senior Secondary Education Department (NSSEC) in the ministry, Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, the minister described education as the cornerstone for any meaningful development.

    He stressed the need for beneficiaries to equip themselves with modern technology for teaching and learning.

    “The world is undergoing a technological revolution and artificial intelligence (Al) is at its core.

    “Al is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality, transforming industries, economies and societies.

    “As educators, we must embrace this evolution and ensure our education sector is not left behind.

    “The integration of Al into pedagogy offers an unprecedented opportunity to enhance learning experiences, personalise education and develop critical thinking skills among our students,” he said.

    Also, the Executive Secretary, National Senior Secondary Education Commission, Dr. Iyela Ajayi, called on state governments, school administrators and private sector partners to support the initiative.

    Ajayi appealed for investment in infrastructure, teacher training and learners’ welfare to ensure that no school, teacher or learner was left behind in the journey towards educational excellence.

    On the implementation of the minimum standards, he assured of immediate and full implementation, while giving nine-month widow for school sanctions.

    Bayelsa begins six-week training for teachers

    The Bayelsa Education Development Trust Fund (BEDTF) has begun a six-week training for teachers, aimed at overcoming learning deficiencies amongst children in public schools.

    The programme is a collaboration between the BEDTF and the Teachers Training, Registration and Certification Board (TTRCB), in partnership with the Bridge Academy in United States of America.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, Commissioner of Education Dr. Gentle Emelah noted that inclusive education emphasises special attention to students with learning disabilities.

    Emelah, who was represented by Dr. Charles Daniel, Chairman, Bayelsa Assembly Committee on Education, noted that education remained a priority to state government.

    He applauded the BEDTF for the training and urged the selected teachers to utilise the opportunity to accommodate children with learning difficulties.

    Executive Secretary of the BEDTF, Dr. Alice Atuwo, noted that the fund had identified a gap in learning amongst children.

    She said that the needs of children with learning deficiencies were often neglected.

    Google training 6,000 Nigerian teachers

    An Educational Technologist, Dr Oluwakemi Olurinola, said that the emerging influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the educational sector has raised the need to train 6,000 teachers across the country by Google.

    Olurinola, who is from the Department of Science and Technology Education, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, said this at the opening of the training in Abuja.

    She explained that AI had the potential to revolutionise teaching and learning, adding that teachers need to harness the power of AI to create more engaging and effective learning experiences for students.

    “We all know that the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted a critical digital skill deficit among our educators.

    “This challenge is compounded by the emerging influence of AI in the educational setting, introducing a new dimension of inequality that threatens to widen the existing skill gap.

    “As we set on this journey, let’s consider that the educational landscape in Nigeria is at a very crucial turning point, where the old ways of teaching are being questioned by the swift progression of technology,” she said.

    Speaking virtually, a Research Engineer at Google, Avishkar Bhoopchand, said the training would improve the experiences of teaching and learning.

    “We recognise the vital role that teachers play in shaping the future. We strive to provide tools and resources that empower them to create engaging and effective learning experiences.”

    Expert, NSSEC train 6,000 teachers on digital skills gap

    An educational technologist, Dr. Oluwakemi Olurinola, has partnered with the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC) to train 6,000 teachers on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Pedagogy to address the digital skills gap in the education sector.

    Olurinola, who works with the Department of Science and Technology Education at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, disclosed this in Abuja.

    She explained that the university was also collaborating with Google and Exquitec Education Technology as training partners to deliver the programme to teachers across various states.

    According to her, findings during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed a huge digital skills gap among teachers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

    “This skill gap is still yet to be bridged, and now we have the influx of AI tools in the educational setting.

    “This project, AI in Pedagogy, is essentially about improving teachers’ proficiency and efficacy in using AI for teaching and learning.”

    NISS, Education ministry train principals on school safety

    The National Institute of Security Studies (NISS), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, has launched a five-day intensive security training programme for principals of Federal Unity Colleges.

    The initiative is aimed at strengthening school security in response to rising threats across the country.

    Speaking at the workshop in Abuja, NISS Commandant, Mr. Joseph Odama, highlighted the growing vulnerability of educational institutions.

    He stressed that gaps in security frameworks and insider threats make this training crucial in equipping school leaders with the knowledge to detect risks and protect students.

    “At the end of the programme, we expect that participants will have broader knowledge about security awareness concerning their school environment, institutions, and local challenges.

    “This will enable them to understand security challenges within their areas and how to interface with other security agencies,” Odama said.

    Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Nasir Gwarzo, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring the safety of schools.

    Represented by the Director of the Safety Unit, Alhaji Abdullahi Hussain, Gwarzo emphasised that no child should have to learn in fear, underscoring the importance of protecting schools.

    The National Coordinator of the Financing Safe Schools Initiative, Hajia Halima Iliya, also delivered a goodwill message, noting that the programme was initially launched in 2014 and revitalised under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Kwara launches coding, digital literacy programme

    The Kwara State Government has launched a Coding and Digital Literacy training programme for at least 50 public primary and junior secondary schools across the state.

    The programme was organised by the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital and Innovation, Mr. Ishola Kayode.

     Flagging off the programme on behalf of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Senior Adviser and Counsellor to the Governor, Alhaji Sa’adu Salau, said it aimed to strengthen education sector investments.

     Salau noted the initiative targets over 150 students in each of the 50 schools for the pilot scheme.

    Bayelsa, British Council begin school leadership, training for teachers

    Bayelsa government and the British Council have commenced a capacity-building for some 200 primary and secondary school teachers to improve teaching methods and enhancement in the state.

    The programme is a collaboration between the Bayelsa State Educational Development Trust Fund (BEDTF), and the Teachers Training, Registration and Certification Board (TTRCB).

    The 200 participants for the five day training include Headmasters in primary schools and principals of secondary schools across Bayelsa.

     Speaking at the event, Dr Gentle Emelah, Commissioner for Education in Bayelsa noted that the state prioritises the manpower development of teachers as a way of improving learning.

     Emelah, who was represented by Mr. Monday Eke, Director, Examinations and Records, lauded the BEDTF for attracting the partnership and support of the British Council.

  • Shareholders seek balance between counseling, disciplines in Lagos public schools

    Shareholders seek balance between counseling, disciplines in Lagos public schools

    • By Divine Joseph, Joy Anyanwu, and Beulah Ebitanmi

    Stakeholders in Lagos State education sector have called for a balance between counseling and corporal punishment in public schools.

    Those interviewed by The Nation yesterday supported the stance of the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamil Ali-Balogun, who opted for counseling as a more effective and humane method to address students’ indiscipline instead of corporal punishment in public schools.

    But some parents and teachers argued that non-violent disciplinary measures are more effective in fostering positive behaviour in pupils.

    A parent, Mr. Adamsmith Ngwu, who partially disagreed with the commissioner, noted that in his days in school, he and his peers were disciplined with corporal punishment and it worked.

    He expressed his worry that without corporal punishment, children won’t take discipline seriously.

    He also stated that counseling may work for some children, but others may need a firmer hand.

    “I think we need to find a balance between counseling and discipline.

    In another interview, Mrs. Amaechi Okeke, a teacher, said: “I’ve seen corporal punishment used in schools and I don’t think it’s effective. It can create a culture of fear and resentment among students. “It is a good idea, but we need to find alternative methods to maintain discipline in schools. Corporal punishments may not be the best approach, but we need to find ways to hold students accountable for their actions.”

     She stated that counseling is a better approach to discipline because it helps understand the underlying issues that may be causing a student’s misconduct.

    Read Also: FEC approves ₦10.3bn for diabetes kits, HIV drugs, hospital equipment

    “It is a more holistic approach to discipline. Counseling may be effective but we need to make sure we are not being too soft on these students,” Mrs. Okeke said.

    A parent, who craved anonymity, said: “I think it’s a perfect decision. As a parent, I want my child to feel safe and well supported in school. These corporal punishments can be very traumatic and damaging to a child’s self-esteem. Also, she is of the opinion that counseling helps children understand the consequences of their actions and develop emotional intelligence.

    “Counseling is a more humane approach to discipline. It helps my child reflect on their behaviour and make better choices.”

    A principal from one of the private schools in Lagos, Mr. Jacob Aina, pointed out that many teachers inflict injuries on learners because of the inability to control their emotions.

    “Corporal punishment outweighs the offences committed, and some punishments have ulterior motives behind them when investigated eventually,” Aina said.

    In an interview, Mrs. Yetunde Ajose, a teacher, expressed her opinion, stating that while discipline is necessary, it should be administered in moderation.

    “At times, children need to be corrected with a cane, but not excessively to the point of harming them. Some children can be stubborn, and the use of a cane can help to scare them, not necessarily by beating them all over their bodies,” she said.

    Another teacher, Miss Chioma Igwe, had mixed feelings about the ban.

    She explained: “I feel it is both okay. The reason it is okay is that excessive flogging can be harmful. However, if a student misbehaves and the teacher does not flog them or use the cane as a deterrent, the student might assume that the teacher is incapable of enforcing discipline, leading to more misconduct.”

    A teacher and musicologist, who refused to mention her name, said the best way to make student develop easily without the use of forceful treatment in the name of discipline is to involve a training system for teachers, set rules that can aid speed to expand the minds of children on how to relate with their peers and develop a free rewards for maintaining and showing good behaviour within and outside their school environment or surroundings.

  • Oko Poly rector unveils 12-point agenda for growth

    Oko Poly rector unveils 12-point agenda for growth

    • Institute lays foundation for digital security station
    • By Divine Joseph, Joy Anyanwu, and Beulah Ebitanmi

    The Rector, Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has rolled out 12-point agenda for the transformation of the institution within her five year single tenure.

    The Federal Government recently approved the appointment of Dr. Awuzie to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the polytechnic.

    Dr. Awuzie, a seasoned educationist and administrator with a proven track record of excellence, has many years of experience in teaching, research and leadership.

     In her inaugural speech recently, she outlined her vision for the polytechnic, emphasising the need for innovation, entrepreneurship, and skills development.

    She noted the need to introduce more new technological oriented programmes that would expose the students to skill acquisitions, being able to use their hands as much as their brains.

    She has also laid the foundation for the digitalised security station at the extension site to combat incessant attacks on its facilities.

    Explaining her strategic plans for the polytechnic, she said, “As we embark on this new chapter in the history of this citadel of learning, our administration is firmly committed to a transformative vision encapsulated in a 12-point agenda. This agenda will serve as a strategic roadmap for repositioning the institution as a hub of technological creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness.”

    The Rector also pledged to strengthen the institution’s industry partnerships, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall learning experience for students. She promised to strengthen the institution’s ties with sister institutions in matters of affiliation in order to improve academic excellence.

     “We will work closely with industries, stakeholders to ensure that our curricula are relevant and aligned with industry needs,” she explained.

    Read Also: Nigeria can earn $2.5billion annually from trades with Morocco – Abbas

    Speaking during the foundation laying ceremony in Oko, Awuzie said the security station when completed would be equipped with ultramodern security gadgets with 24 hours power supply to keep the environment under round the clock surveillance.

    Regretting some valuables already carted away, the rector reiterated readiness of her administration to train and retrain security men and women and engage more vibrate ones to man strategic locations of the polytechnic’s three campuses.

    She promised to synergise with formal security agencies to beef up security network on campus, adding that such would improve the confidence of students residing within the campuses.

    “This security station will be one of its kinds and will be completed on schedule with ultramodern equipment to fast track the required security network in the area. We will work closely with the security operatives for necessary backup and strengthen our internal security through adequate training and retraining. We will ensure regular patrolling and illumination of all dark areas of the campuses to restore confidence of students and give them extended time of night study,” she said.

  • Bauchi to integrate Tsangaya curriculum into western education

    Bauchi to integrate Tsangaya curriculum into western education

    The Bauchi State Government has inaugurated a technical committee to integrate the traditional Islamiyya and Tsangaya school curriculum into the mainstream Western education system.

    Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Bauchi yesterday, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Muhammed Lawal, said the aim is to improve learning quality.

    “This move aligns with the Federal Government’s new structures for integrating non-formal education into the mainstream system for better management,” he stated.

    Dr. Lawal disclosed that the initiative is part of efforts to address the challenge of out-of-school children, which arose from discussions during a recent roundtable meeting.

    Read Also: FEC approves ₦10.3bn for diabetes kits, HIV drugs, hospital equipment

    “We want to ensure that children in these schools receive formal education alongside Islamic teachings. It is time to incorporate Western education into their learning process,” he said.

    He explained that the committee’s responsibilities include overseeing the proper implementation of guidelines for this integration and ensuring that it is effectively adopted in the curriculum.

    He added that the committee will ensure accurate data collection on student enrollment in the state’s annual school census.

     The commissioner urged parents and guardians to take advantage of the government’s investment in education by enrolling their children in school.

  • Fed Govt appoints Chukwu Admiralty varsity VC

    Fed Govt appoints Chukwu Admiralty varsity VC

    The Federal Government has approved the appointment of Prof. Lucian Obinna Chukwu as the substantive vice-chancellor of Admiralty University, Ibuzor, Delta State.

    A statement from the Federal Ministry of Education revealed that the appointment is for a single tenure of five years, effective from February 28.

    Until his appointment, Prof. Chukwu was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services) at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

    According to the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, Prof. Chukwu scored 83.41 per cent of the total votes cast among the five candidates interviewed to emerge as the vice-chancellor.

    She said: “The Governing Council of Admiralty University, Ibuzor conducted the selection exercise for the appointment of a substantive vice-chancellor on February 26 and 27, 2025, in the Council Chamber of the university.

    “At the end of the exercise, Prof. Chukwu emerged as the highest scorer with 83.41 per cent among the five interviewed candidates.

    “In line with the principle of merit upheld by the Federal Government, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa has approved the appointment of Prof. Chukwu as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of Admiralty University, Ibuzor.

    “The appointment is effective from February 28, 2025, for a single tenure of five years. The minister wishes the new vice-chancellor a successful tenure.”

    Prof. Chukwu was trained at the University of Lagos, where he obtained his Doctorate in Ecosystem Health and Pollution Management.

    He later received post-doctoral training in Integrated Coastal Management at the Coastal Resources Institute, University of Rhode Island, USA.

    Read Also: Nigeria can earn $2.5billion annually from trades with Morocco – Abbas

    With over 20 years of teaching experience, Prof. Chukwu has instructed undergraduate and post-graduate students at the University of Lagos and has supervised and graduated numerous PhD and M.Sc. candidates.

    His research has led to the publication of several peer-reviewed papers in recognised journals focusing on ecosystem health and pollution management.

    The Admiralty University of Nigeria (ADUN) is owned by the Nigerian Navy (via its Navy Holdings Limited).

    The establishment of the institution aims at advancing the frontiers of human knowledge by providing leadership in teaching and learning, research and service, using cutting edge technologies to meet current educational demands to surmount the myriads of challenges facing humanity.

    The main objective of the university include to expand the frontiers of knowledge in various unique specialisations such as maritime, Logistics Management, Forensic and Cyber Security Sciences; to use university education as a tool towards development and the enhancement of human well-being; to address the challenges of nation-building; and to raise exemplary leaders who will serve humanity with distinction.

  • NAPTAN, others advise varsities on infrastructure, fees

    NAPTAN, others advise varsities on infrastructure, fees

    The National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) has applauded President Bola Tinubu for granting provisional licences for 11 new private universities.

    National Deputy Chairman of NAPTAN, Mr. Adeolu Ogunbanjo, made the commendation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.

    Ogunbanjo expressed the hope that the approval would create more opportunities for Nigerians to acquire tertiary education.

    “President Bola Tinubu has done very well. Candidates write UTME yearly. So, establishing more universities will cater for the need of more people seeking education.

    “However, the Federal Government should ensure that the newly-approved institutions make education affordable in terms of fees, while adequate facilities should be on ground,” he said.

    He said the universities should give attention to research and devote adequate funds for it.

    Read Also: FEC approves ₦10.3bn for diabetes kits, HIV drugs, hospital equipment

    Deputy Registrar at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Mr. Joe Ejiofor, told NAN that the new universities would contribute to education development.

    Ejiofor advised the institutions not to prioritise profit over education quality. According to him, Nigeria hosts about 150 private universities.

    “This expansion may challenge the NUC’s ability to effectively regulate and oversee the quality of education in the ever-growing private university sector,” he said.

    Also, Dr. Azeez Wahab, a former Provost of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Yaba called on the new institutions  to live up to expectations.

    Wahab noted that university operations required lots of funding for effective teaching and learning.

    “It is advisable for them to engage the services of qualified staff,” he said.

    He praised Tinubu for granting the licences.

  • VC blames greed for economic challenges

    VC blames greed for economic challenges

    • Says Tinubu steering Nigeria in  right direction

    The Vice Chancellor of the African School of Economics (The Pan-African University of Excellence), Abuja, Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji, has attributed the economic challenges facing a number of African countries to the greed of their leaders while advocating a paradigm shift that prioritises meeting the needs of many people over satisfying the greed of the few  in leadership positions.

    Adedimeji made this submission in his address:  Between Need and Greed, delivered at the 2nd Public Lecture of the university which was delivered by Susan HayesCulleton of Ulster University, Belfast, Ireland.

    According to him, while many countries in other parts of the world create conditions and develop sustainable models that ensure that people’s needs are met, the situation is different in many parts of Africa where economic conditions make life choking for the majority due to the greed and corruption of the leaders.

    He noted that Nigeria is moving in the right direction and acknowledged that the recent economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, though painful, are fruitful. He said the value of naira is appreciating at the forex market while there is also a gradual reduction  in the cost of petrol and that people actually have renewed hope in the country.

    The VC decried the desperation that has characterised the Nigerian society in the quest for quick financial breakthroughs.

    Read Also: Nigeria can earn $2.5billion annually from trades with Morocco – Abbas

    He said: “The focus of the youth should shift dramatically from interest in the primitive acquisition of wealth at the expense of moral values. Our society is becoming increasingly dangerous as a result of the appetitive avarice of the people, the young and the old. Recent developments about young people committing heart-shaking crimes of murder, ritual killing, and fraud have to be nipped in the bud through a systemic approach to human development. This is the approach that integrates the physical, educational, social, emotional, intellectual and cultural components to training people.”

    Adedimeji further highlighted the transition of Ireland from her challenging past to the current success story of resilience, adaptation and extraordinary transformation as a vibrant hub for innovation, technology and investment.

     He also drew attention to the need to learn from others especially China, which in the past one month had launched the new AI model, Deepseek, for public use, tested 6G Internet and got set to launch a kilometre-wide solar system far in the space, a system that is 10 times more efficient than the regular solar.

    In  her lecture: Economic Growth Models: The Irish Experience, Hayes Culleton noted that the nation’s economic growth has potential especially when it learns from the experiences of others, improves its  businesses to make them more sustainable and collaborates  to overcome the challenges of a changing environment while building international relationships.

    The lecturer also highlighted the implications of issues like immigration, climate change and Artificial Intelligence for economic productivity, social cohesion and sustainable development.

    The lecture was attended by dignitaries including the Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Mr Peter Ryan, the Pro-Chancellor of African School of Economics, Princess Gloria Akobundu and the Vice-Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Prof. Noah Yusuf, who chaired the event.