The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Students  urged to shun unethical practices

    Students  urged to shun unethical practices

    Vice Chancellor Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello has enjoined newly matriculated sandwich students to steer clear of social vices, namely examination malpractices, hooliganism, gangsterism, drug abuse and more, adding that those  found wanting  would face appropriate disciplinary actions.

    The VC, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor  (Administration), Prof.  Adenike Boyo, spoke at the  matriculation ceremony for students admitted into the Sandwich Degree Programme for the 2024 Modular Year, at the Femi Gbajabiamila Conference Centre, main campus Ojo, Lagos.

    Olatunji-Bello emphasised the significance of the programme in enhancing the university’s reputation and academic excellence.

    She told the students that the Sandwich Degree Programme adheres to world-class standards, ensuring that its graduates remain competitive in the global academic and professional landscape.

    “I congratulate our world-class students on reaching this milestone. Your decision to enrol in our Sandwich Degree Programme is a testament to your confidence in Lagos State University’s ability to provide quality education,” she said.

    The VC reminded the new students that while university life offers a degree of freedom, it also demands responsibility and discipline.

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    She advised them to embrace self-discipline, attend lectures consistently, submit assignments on time, and steer clear of behaviours that could jeopardise their academic careers.

     While stressing the school’s  commitment to student welfare, she highlighted the university’s various support systems, including the Guidance and Counselling Unit and the University Career Development Centre (LCDC), where students can receive professional guidance on their career aspirations.

    The VC urged students to remain focused, set clear goals, and adopt a determined mindset. “Persistence, dedication, and hard work are the keys to success,” she added.

     Director, Sandwich Degree Programme, Prof.  Olufemi Adeogun, reiterated  LASU’s  commitment to academic excellence.

     He said: “Matriculation signifies a significant milestone as new students are officially welcomed into the university community,students enrolled in the Sandwich Degree Programme enjoy equal rights and privileges as their regular counterparts.

     “Enrolling in a sandwich programme does not in any way limit your academic achievement; rather, it enhances your capacity to excel without compromising your professional commitments.”

  • Babcock University hosts lecture on youth development, others

    Babcock University hosts lecture on youth development, others

    • By Tunde Adeniyi

    Youths and  graduates have been urged  to continuously upgrade their skills to remain relevant and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

    The Ogun State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, made this call during the 3rd Personality Lecture Series at Babcock University, Ilisan Remo, Ogun State.

    The event with  the theme:  Becoming Relevant in the World of Work: Optimising the Future, emphasised the importance of skill development and adaptability.

    A model that is transforming learning across the world.

    “Individuals must continually update their skills and knowledge to remain relevant and embrace opportunities,” he said.

    He highlighted the need for agility and responsiveness to technological advancements, stressing that innovation is constantly reshaping industries. According to him, technology facilitates global connectivity, enabling remote work and cross-border collaboration.

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    Outlining strategies for staying relevant, he emphasised creativity and innovation, effective communication and collaboration, as well as digital literacy and technical skills. These, he noted, are crucial for generating new ideas, products, and services that add value and enhance productivity.

    The commissioner encouraged youths to enrol in online courses, apply for global internships, and collaborate with peers to launch ventures that address local challenges. He added that seeking new experiences, attending conferences, and participating in training programmes would help them stay updated on emerging industry trends.

    The President and Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Prof. Ademola Tayo, also urged youths to be diligent and focused, stating that “the reward for hard work is more work.”

  • UNIJOS senate approves faculty of computing

    UNIJOS senate approves faculty of computing

    The Senate of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) has approved the establishment of a new Faculty of Computing.

    The  decision  marks a significant milestone in the school’s academic progression which is based on addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals trained in contemporary disciplines.

    The approval was granted through the Chairman of the University Senate and Vice Chancellor, Prof.  Tanko Ishaya, after thorough deliberation by the Senate.

    The Senate Curriculum Committee had undertaken a meticulous examination of the proposed curricula, ensuring that the academic standards align with national and international benchmarks before submitting its recommendation to the Senate.

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    The establishment of the faculty is subject to necessary approvals from the National Universities Commission (NUC) after undertaking an assessment of the programmes, facilities and resources to ensure compliance.

    According to a statement signed by the Senior Registrar, Information and Publication, Abdullahi Abdullahi, the faculty will comprise the Departments of Computer Science, Cyber Security Science, Computer Information Science and Software Engineering.

    Under these Departments, the university will offer a range of programmes, including Bachelors of Science in Cyber Security Science, Computer Information Systems, Data Science, Information Technology and Software Engineering.

  • Body-shaming, anonymous message: our story, by students

    Body-shaming, anonymous message: our story, by students

    • By Faiza Abdulaziz

    Chindara, a student (Real name withheld) was a victim of cyberbullying  in a Whatsapp group  created for students living in hostels to have easy access to information.

    An anonymous message link was sent to the group and people were told  to drop  messages for fun.

    “One day the group admin sent an anonymous message link and said everyone should drop messages, it’s just for fun. Someone I know or even a roommate of mine dropped a message mentioning my name, my roommate, department and even my level,” Chindara said.

    She said this unknown person mentioned in the anonymous group message that her shapeless body is no longer agile, likening her body to that of an aged person.

    Whenever she thinks about it, she feels deflated and loses her self-esteem. She narrated how she performed below standard in her academics.

    “I  lose concentration whenever I  remember  how I was mocked for something I have absolutely no control over,” she said.

    Chindara’s story is not unique. Many students have been mentally affected as a result of cyberbullying. Speaking with Campus Life, Maryam Ayomide said she had once been accused of dating two of her coursemates when the narrative was actually far from being true.

    “Many of us are not strong enough to handle strong criticism,” she said.

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    Another student of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto Abubakar Aisha also shared that anonymous messages often lead to bullying or harassment which create a toxic environment. She believes that it can also lead to anxiety, stress and create fear in the mind of a student who receives such a message.

    Report from the National Library of Medicine agreed that victims report lower school performance and school attachment as a result of cyberbullying. It showed that A total of 15.8% of students reported cyberbullying and 25.9% reported school bullying in the past 12 months. A majority (59.7%) of cyberbullying victims were also school bullying victims; 36.3% of school bullying victims were also cyberbullying victims.

    According to UNICEF, “more than a third of young people in 30 countries report being a victim of online bullying.”

    “Don’t isolate yourself”, expert says Malam Misbahu Kaura, the examination officer and lecturer at the department of Educational Foundation of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, also a lecturer of Guidance and Counselling, said body-shaming is a serious offence  that attracts punishment.

    He said:, “The victims should not try to heal alone by isolating themselves. They should visit the school counselling unit so that a trained counsellor  can help minimise the effects of the act.”

    Misbahu noted that body-shaming is more than words or jokes, adding that students should know there are  individual differences and everyone is unique in one way or the other.

    He encouraged the students of Guidance and Counselling to collaborate with the Students’ Union to organise a rally on body-shaming and its implications.

  • Amadi Harry inspires fresh students at UniPort orientation, awards scholarships  

    Amadi Harry inspires fresh students at UniPort orientation, awards scholarships  

    The University of Port Harcourt (UniPort) was abuzz with excitement as Amadi Harry Excellent, the visionary MD/CEO of Hamrex Group, delivered an inspiring keynote address at the Year One Orientation program.

    As a seasoned entrepreneur, real estate mogul, and business mentor, his speech left an indelible mark on the young minds eager to embark on their academic journey.

    Speaking passionately about growth, excellence, and resilience, Amadi Harry Excellent urged the freshers to maximize their time at the university, emphasizing the power of vision, strategic networking, and relentless pursuit of success. 

    He encouraged them to strive for excellence in academics and personal development, reminding them that the choices they make today will shape their future.

    In his powerful address, he warned against cultism, fraud, and drug abuse, highlighting the dangers these vices pose to students’ lives and careers. 

    He urged the freshers to stay focused, associate with the right people, and uphold values of integrity and hard work.

    “Your time in the university is a stepping stone to greatness. Stay focused, build meaningful relationships, and avoid distractions that can derail your future. Cultism, fraud, and drug abuse are paths that lead to destruction. Choose the path of excellence instead,” he advised.

    In a heartwarming gesture, Amadi Harry Excellent awarded scholarships to select students, reaffirming his commitment to youth empowerment and educational support. 

    His generosity was met with cheers and gratitude from students and faculty members alike, who applauded his dedication to fostering the next generation of leaders.

    “Education is the foundation of any great society. Investing in young minds today guarantees a brighter tomorrow. I believe in giving back and helping students who have the drive but lack the means,” he remarked.

    The event, attended by university officials, lecturers, and students, further solidified Amadi Harry Excellent’s reputation as a transformational leader and role model for young people across Nigeria.

    As he continues his mission to inspire and empower, his presence at the UniPort orientation will be remembered as a defining moment for many first-year students who now feel more equipped and motivated to pursue their dreams.

  • Fed Govt launches digital certification to boost workforce skills

    Fed Govt launches digital certification to boost workforce skills

    The federal government has launched a Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) Certificate Licensing Programme to enhance workforce skills and address Nigeria’s widening digital skills gap.

    Speaking at the unveiling yesterday on the Lagos campus, DBI President and CEO David Daser highlighted the initiative’s importance in establishing Nigeria as a frontrunner in digital transformation.

    Daser said the programme aims to equip individuals and organisations with globally recognised ICT certifications, improving employability and driving economic growth in the digital economy.

    “This programme is designed to provide access to high-quality, industry-recognized training that will empower individuals, close the skills gap, and strengthen Nigeria’s workforce,” he said.

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    He explained that DBI, a subsidiary of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has been at the forefront of ICT education in Nigeria and is licensed by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).

    He also said the institute collaborates with global tech giants such as Cisco, Microsoft, and Huawei to ensure its training meets international standards.

    Daser emphasised that the newly launched Global Certification and Training Partnership Programme (GTP/GCP) will enable DBI to license its training modules to qualified institutions and trainers nationwide.

    He added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic growth, youth development, and job creation.

    “This initiative supports President Tinubu’s vision of preparing Nigeria’s youth for high-demand roles in the technology sector, enhancing their employability and driving economic progress,”

    He called on stakeholders across sectors, including educational institutions, trainers, and private organisations, to collaborate in shaping the future of Nigeria’s digital workforce.

    “I urge all stakeholders to join us in ensuring that our workforce is prepared for the opportunities of the digital economy.”

    Chairman of Commit Technology and Consult Ltd, Dr. Niran Oyekale, also underscored the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s digital skills gap, warning that failure to act could leave the nation behind in the global knowledge economy.

    Oyekale stressed the importance of positioning Nigeria as a leader in digital skills training.

  • Why proof of funds for UK, US visa applications in Nigeria is important, by expert

    Why proof of funds for UK, US visa applications in Nigeria is important, by expert

    A travel consultant, Segun Emmanuel Falade has explained the importance of proof of funds for UK, US visa applications in Nigeria.

    Falade who is also the Chief Executive Officer/Managing Consultant, Japa Without Tears, described the proof of funds as one of the crucial requirements needed for visa approval. 

    He said: “This is a critical aspect of the visa application process, and failure to provide adequate proof can lead to a rejected application. 

    “Proof of funds is a document or set of documents that demonstrate an individual’s financial capacity to support themselves during their stay in the UK or USA. 

    “This can include bank statements, income certificates, or other financial documents that show you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses.

    “The UK and USA governments require proof of funds to ensure that visa applicants have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay. 

    “This is to prevent individuals from becoming a burden on the state or engaging in illegal activities to support themselves. By providing proof of funds, you demonstrate that you are financially stable and can support yourself during your stay.

    “There are few Consequences of Insufficient Proof of Funds, Failure to provide adequate proof of funds can lead to a rejected visa application. In some cases, the embassy or consulate may request additional documentation or clarification, which can delay the application process. In extreme cases, a rejected application can lead to a ban on future applications.

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    “Bank statements showing a minimum balance of £1,000 (UK) or $1,000-$5,000 (USA), Income certificates or pay slips, Tax returns or financial statements, A letter from your employer or sponsor confirming your financial support.”

    He further stated: “Here are some tips to keep in mind when providing proof of funds: Ensure your bank statements are up-to-date and show a consistent flow of funds. Provide detailed income certificates or pay slips to demonstrate your financial stability.

    “Consider opening a dollar or pounds sterling account to demonstrate your ability to support yourself in the UK or USA. Be transparent and honest about your financial situation to avoid any discrepancies or misrepresentation.”

    “In conclusion, providing proof of funds is a critical aspect of the UK/USA visa application process in Nigeria. By demonstrating your financial stability and capacity to support yourself, you can increase your chances of a successful application. 

    “It’s important to Remember to provide detailed and up-to-date financial documents, and consider opening a dollar or pounds sterling account to demonstrate your financial readiness and to make it flawless and more effective, you can leverage on the foremost indigenous brand “Japa Without Tears” an arm of Moneywealth Info Systems Limited.”

  • Deputy Senate President hails Gwarzo for commitment to quality education

    Deputy Senate President hails Gwarzo for commitment to quality education

    Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has lauded the founder of MAAUN Group of Universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, for his commitment to qualify education not only in Nigeria but in the entire African continent.

    Jibrin spoke while making a presentation at PhD seminar and colloquium at the Maryam Abacha American University (MAAUN).

    The seminar, which has its theme: Entrepreneurial orientation and financial performance of SMEs: The moderating role of the environment, was attended by management staff and faculty members.

    He said there was a need for Northerners to appreciate and be proud of Gwarzo for establishing the universities that can compete favourably with any university in the world.

    He said he decided to pursue his PhD programme in Maryam Abacha American University of Niger because the university does not compromise quality and security of students.

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    Barau said: “If not because he lives in Abuja, his children would have attended MAAUN because of the security and the facilities that have been put in place to guarantee effective teaching and learning.

    “Everybody would want to bring their child to this university because of the safety and security.”

    Barau noted that MAAUN has 

    continued to make great contributions in producing quality graduates in various fields of human endeavors who are currently contributing to the development of Nigeria and other countries across the globe.

    He thanked the university management for giving him the opportunity to address them even though he’s their student.

    “I’m proud of the university founder for this achievement being my constituent and will also congratulate the university for emerging the best university in Niger Republic and the second best private university in Nigeria as announced by the AD Scientific Index World Ranking,” he said.

    Acting Dean, Post Graduate School MAAUN Niger, Dr. Musa Uba Adamu said Maryam Abacha American University of Niger is committed to standard and quality of education.

    He said: “There is no two ways about it other than to follow the only hard and the only way based on due process.”

    According to him, the university is committed to producing the best graduates who would compete with their counterparts across the world.

  • EdTech expert Ayomide Arowolo-Ayodeji champions decentralised education revolution for Africa

    EdTech expert Ayomide Arowolo-Ayodeji champions decentralised education revolution for Africa

    In an era where educational inequality persists across Nigeria and many African nations, one EdTech pioneer is refusing to settle for business as usual. Ayomide Arowolo-Ayodeji, the dynamic founder of Know the Blocks Maven (KBM), is leading the charge for a radical reimagination of how education is designed, delivered, and governed, through decentralization.

    Her groundbreaking innovation, DAOit, is more than a platform; it’s a movement. Powered by blockchain and DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) architecture, DAOit aims to dismantle the top-down education structures that have failed to meet the needs of modern learners, especially in underserved communities.

    “Africa’s centralized education system is not only outdated, it’s exclusionary,” Ayomide told The Nation. “DAOit is designed to break down these barriers and create a future where education is shaped by those who live it, students, teachers, parents, and communities.”

    Arowolo-Ayodeji is no stranger to educational disruption. Through KBM, her EdTech initiative launched in 2021, she has empowered more than 10,500 students across Africa with critical skills in blockchain, artificial intelligence, and Web3 technologies. KBM’s model integrates this training directly into traditional school systems by embedding educators within classrooms and establishing tech clubs, in partnership with local governments.

    Her cross-continental collaborations include the Los Angeles School District’s STEM Literacy Editorial Exchange Program, where KBM on-boarded students onto DAOit, offering them first-hand experience with decentralized technologies in education.

    Traditional education systems across Africa remain plagued by bureaucracy, outdated curricula, and rigid credentialing frameworks. According to the International Telecommunication Union (2023), only 27% of individuals in low-income countries have stable internet access, leaving millions disconnected from the global knowledge economy.

    What’s more, fragmented and manual certificate verification systems continue to frustrate employers and contribute to youth unemployment. DAOit tackles both issues head-on by offering to build a globally connected educational ecosystem where governance is decentralized, data is transparent, and every stakeholder, from student to policymaker, can collaboratively shape the future of learning through trust, equity, and innovation.

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    The mission is to create an interactive platform that fosters equity, transparency, and collaborative decision-making, leveraging the power of Web3 technology. DAOit’s mission is to empower educational communities with decentralized tools that support inclusive governance, real-time decision-making, financial inclusion, and tech upskilling. Through the integration of blockchain, AI, and crowdsourced data, DAOit fosters transparency, protects content ownership, and enables schools worldwide to co-create equitable, resilient, and data-informed learning environments.

     “We must reimagine education to reflect the realities of our youth and communities,” said Arowolo-Ayodeji. “This is not just about innovation, it’s a matter of urgency.”

    DAOit has already garnered international attention as it is currently in the UNICEF Venture Fund RPF round. It was spotlighted at the Harvard Graduate School of Education Blockchain Club’s inaugural conference, and showcased at the EasyA & Bitcoin Education Fest Hackathon, where it stood out as a trailblazing use case of blockchain for social good.

    Currently, DAOit is in discussions with U.S. charter schools and global education networks to expand its pilot and refine its governance model for broader implementation. Its open-source, scalable architecture means that it can be adapted to fit the unique socio-educational ecosystems across Africa, and beyond.

    Arowolo-Ayodeji believes Nigeria can lead the continent’s decentralized education revolution. With DAOit as a blueprint, she envisions a future where education is not dictated by systems, but co-authored by communities.

    “Nigeria has the talent. It has the tenacity. What we need now is the will,” she affirmed. “DAOit offers a scalable, inclusive model that aligns with global innovation while staying grounded in our values and lived realities.”

    As Africa confronts the crossroads of a digital future and an outdated education legacy, DAOit may very well be the spark that ignites a new era, one where learning is decentralized, democratized, and deeply empowering.

  • Olaoluwa gives free JAMB forms to indigent Oyo students

    Olaoluwa gives free JAMB forms to indigent Oyo students

    The President, Peter Olaoluwa Foundation, (POF), Olaoluwa Peter Abidemi, popularly called (OPA), distributed free JAMB forms to indigent students in Oyo State.

    This he stated that will help the students to re-ignite their dream and achieve their God-given talents.

    He also congratulated Muslims in Oyo State and across the world over commencement of the Islamic Holy Month of Ramadan.

    He said Ramadan offers another chance for Muslims to rededicate themselves to the worship of Allah.

    A statement by Olaoluwa while describing Ramadan as an important pillar of Islam noted that the fasting period humbles both the rich and the poor, who are both expected to go without food between sunrise and sunset 30 days.

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    He noted that a true and committed Muslim is known during Ramadan, urging adherents of Islamic faith to use the period for spiritual cleansing and healing and also to pray for the peace of Oyo state in particular and Nigeria in general.

    OPA called on adherents of various religions to love one another and live together in peace, which Oyo state is known for in Nigeria and other parts of the world.

    He said: ”I congratulate Muslims in Oyo State on the commencement of Ramadan because it is a privilege to witness that of 2025 I urge them to use this period to move closer to Allah and rededicate themselves to the teachings of the Holy Quran as taught by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

    “As we seek the face of Allah in this holy month, let us hold dear, those lessons of the holy Prophet and pray earnestly for peace in the country. As a people, we can achieve a lot more in a peaceful atmosphere, and all that is required is love for one another and commitment to work for the peace and unity of the country.” He added.