The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • The power of peer pressure

    The power of peer pressure

    Peer Pressure refers to the influence exerted by a person’s peer or people of similar age, states or interests, to adopt certain behaviours, attitude or values. This influence can be direct or indirect, positive or negative, shaping ones decision, relation and even sense of humour. This influence can be exerted through various means which are social interactions, social norms, fear of rejection etc.

    Pressure can be a powerful motivator, encouraging personal growth, promoting healthy habits, foster social connections support academic success, encourages community involvement. Peer pressure can  encourage us to push beyond our comfort zones and achieve our goals. For example: A friend who encourages you to join a study group can help you build your academic life.

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    However, it also  has a negative impact, leading individuals to encourage cheating and academic dishonesty, among others. For example an individual can be pressured to join gangs to gain acceptance or protection.

    Breaking free from peer pressure can be achieved by building self-esteem, and confidence; developing a robust support system, seeking help,setting boundaries and staying true to one’s self.

    •Olaniyan is Mass Communication student at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) Ago Iwoye, Ogun State.

  • YABATECH rector seeks industry, academia partnership

    YABATECH rector seeks industry, academia partnership

    By Emmanuel Orji

    The Rector of Yaba College of Technology(YABATECH), Dr  Ibraheem Abdul, has stressed the importance of industry, academia  partnership.

     Speaking during a courtesy visit to NEM Insurance’s chairman and management team, Abdul emphasised the college’s vision of connecting the “town and gown” through strategic collaborations that will benefit students, staff, and the broader industry.

    The rector, who was accompanied by members of the college management team, outlined  the institution’s priority of preparing students for the challenges of the modern workplace through meaningful engagements with the private sector.

    “Industry partnerships remain at the top of our agenda. We believe these collaborations are key to ensuring our students gain practical, hands-on training that prepares them for real-world challenges,” he said.

    The rector highlighted the importance of updating the academic curriculum to reflect current industry trends and realities and implored NEM Insurance and other corporate bodies to actively participate in curriculum reviews and drafting to ensure that what is taught aligns with the expectations of today’s job market.

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    Abdul also called   for  a mentoring programme to be known as  “A Day with the Professionals or CEOs” where industry experts would spend a day with students to provide insights into their fields, share professional experiences, and offer guidance.

    “This initiative will not only inspire our students but will also help build strong relationships between academia and the corporate world,” he said. He stressed the  importance of the insurance industry and the need to train young professionals who can contribute to the sector. He  called for support for the creation of start-up hubs in the college, which would serve as incubators for innovative ideas and skills development for both staff and students and start up kits for such students and staff.

     Managing Director/CEO of NEM Insurance, Mr. Andrew Ikekua, thanked the college for the visit and vision. He praised the college’s forward-thinking approach and affirmed NEM’s willingness to partner with the institution.

    He said: “We at NEM are deeply committed to supporting initiatives like this that promote education and industry growth. We will build on this partnership to make it stronger and more impactful.”

     Ikekua  assured the rector and his team that NEM would actively support the proposed exchange programmes, which aim to provide students with practical exposure in the insurance sector. He sought for mutually beneficial relationship between the two institutions, noting that such collaborations would enhance both academic and industry performance.

    The chairman, NEM Insurance, Mr. Tope Smart pledged NEM’s support for the college proposed initiatives and other areas of collaborations that have been agreed on for implementation.

  • Don: why govt must tackle japa

    Don: why govt must tackle japa

    Government, the private sector and other stakeholders must collaborate to find workable solutions to curb unemployment and the japa  syndrome to stop the rot in the economy.

    This was the thrust of the Anchor University, Lagos,  convocation lecture delivered by erstwhile Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Prof. Charles Esimone.

    Esimone  urged policymakers, youth, and other stakeholders to find sustainable solutions to the dangers posed by youth unemployment and the widespread desire to migrate, through a multifaceted approach.

    The approach, according to him, should be an integration of education, entrepreneurship, and empowerment.

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    The don highlighted factors leading to  emigration, including economic hardship,  political instability and insecurity.

    He said: “The exodus of the country’s brightest minds leads to a “brain drain,” depriving the economy of critical talent, hindering national development, and robbing future generations of exemplary role models.

    “If unemployment is the disease, education is the vaccine. However, like any vaccine, its effectiveness depends on being modernised and adapted to meet the evolving needs of the 21st century.”

    Esimone  noted  that education should serve as a transformative force, enabling individuals to think critically, solve complex problems, and drive innovation,stressing  that it should go beyond the passive transfer of knowledge.

    “Unfortunately, much of our current educational framework remains stuck in rote memorisation, emphasising the regurgitation of information rather than the cultivation of meaningful skills. A paradigm shift is urgently needed,” he said.

    The don called on government, private sector, and civil societies to  partner to strengthen governance, address insecurity and create an environment that encourages young people to stay, contribute, and thrive.

    Earlier, Professor Oye Bandele, Anchor University Lagos Vice Chancellor, stressed the significance of convocation lecture, describing it  as a valued tradition and an opportunity for sharing research knowledge. He said it has  the potential to positively change the trajectory of students’ lives.

  • Anchor varsity overall best student: I was not serious with my studies

    Anchor varsity overall best student: I was not serious with my studies

    The university’s overall best student, Ifeoluwa Odunayo Babayemi, in a chat with The Nation recalled that his academic journey was spectacular until he got into Anchor University.

    He said: “My  academic journey was not always stellar. I was not among the top students in my secondary school, and I wasn’t even serious about my academics. My only goal was to perform above the class average. I remember the joy of scoring higher than the class average. Upon stepping foot on the vibrant campus of Anchor University, I found myself face-to-face with God—a presence so captivating that it altered the very course of my life. It sparked a change within me, igniting a journey of self-discovery I had never anticipated. I began to uncover my true potential and embrace my authentic self (acknowledging God was my turning point). The dream of achieving a perfect CGPA ignited when I discovered the possibility of earning all A’s in a semester. Thus, the goal was set, the journey began, and I resolved that if this was the path to my desired success, I would pursue it wholeheartedly—remaining true to myself. Of course, I achieved it.

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    “It would interest you to know that I joined this university as a lately-admitted student in 2021. We had a short time to complete the semester syllabus, which made my first year quite challenging. Despite the challenges I faced, my determination remained unshaken, and I stayed committed to my goals until the very end. How did I do it?I found a healthy balance between my spiritual life and my academic pursuits.

    “I recognised and acknowledged God in all my endeavours, ensuring I seek Him daily.I made an effort to attend all of my lectures consistently.I dedicated extra time to studying my coursework and outlines. (It should be a time convenient for you)I organised tutorials for my colleagues to assist them and refresh my understanding of the things I studied.As we embark on this new chapter, let us carry with us the spirit of Anchor University – Character, Competence, and Courage.Character: Good morals and virtues.Competence: Skills, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.Courage: Confidence and bravery.

    Admonishing his counterparts, he said: “I have two words of advice for you: “Be Yourself.”One of your greatest potentials lies in knowing and being who you are. Acknowledging the creator of your life.

     Being true to yourself is one of the keys to a successful life. Success starts when you choose to be authentic/yourself. Being yourself means fully accepting and embracing who God has created you to be (your true nature). Not mediocre and definitely not a failure.”

  • Plateau varsity secures NUC approval for new academic programmes

    Plateau varsity secures NUC approval for new academic programmes

    Plateau State University (PLASU) has secured approval from regulatory authorities to launch six new academic programmes, marking a significant milestone in the university’s effort to expand its academic offerings.

    The new programmes include degrees in Medical Sciences (MBBS), Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharm D.), Statistics (B.Sc.) and Religious  Studies (B.A); as well as the endorsement of professional bodies for its programmes in Law and Nursing Sciences.

    The development was announced by the Acting Vice Chancellor/Chairman of the university’s senate, Prof. Shedrack Gaya Best during the 92nd Regular meeting of the Senate on January 10, 2025.

    Prof. Best credited the achievement to the unwavering support and commitment of the State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to the university’s progress. “The result is that now we have gotten approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for all of these programmes,” announced Prof. Best.

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    The NUC gave PLASU the green light to proceed with these programmes, following resource verification with visits to assess the university’s preparedness last year.

    Additionally, the Council of Legal Education and Nursing Council have formally approved the newly established Law and Nursing Science programmes respectively.

    Prof. Best expressed gratitude to the regulatory authorities for supporting the state government’s efforts to promote learning at PLASU.

    He also pledged the management’s commitment to staff welfare for optimal productivity.

    In other developments, the senate received reports on the resumption of academic activities after the Christmas and New Year breaks.

    Efforts to improve campus security are also underway, including the issuance of ID cards and approval of access to hostel accommodation for appropriate categories of students.

    As PLASU continues to expand its academic offerings, it remains committed to providing quality education and promoting a safe and secure learning environment.

  • 10,789 UNILORIN students beneficiaries of NELfund, says VC

    10,789 UNILORIN students beneficiaries of NELfund, says VC

    •Tax reform proposal to better operations

    No fewer than 10,789 students of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) have so far benefited from the Nigerian Education Fund (NELfund) loan, its vice chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole has said.

    Prof. Egbewole is optimistic that the number would double at the end of this session.

    The jurisprudence law professor told reporters in Ilorin as part of activities heralding the 50th anniversary of the institution.

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    He said that “as at now, we have verified that 10,789 students have benefited from NELfund loan.

    “We are hoping that by the time we do the verification for 2024/2025 session, this figure will double.”

    On the proposed tax reforms, Prof. Egbewole said “as a lawyer, a reform is a reform. It is to look at what they are doing to better the present reform.

    “That is exactly what the government wants to do with the tax reforms bill. But that is also in the realm of speculation.

    “The  bill is still with the National Assembly. NASS is dealing with the issue. The political class is also dealing with the backlash. It is not for me to go into.”

    On alleged scrapping of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund), Egbewole said as a lawyer, he deals “with facts and figures”.

    “ASUU may have its own position on TETfund issue, but government has not come out to say it will scrap TETfund,” the VC said.

  • MIMPS partners Prowess varsity to honour Nigerians

    MIMPS partners Prowess varsity to honour Nigerians

    The Msme Institute of Management and Professional Studies (MIMPS), Nigeria, has partnered with Prowess University, Delaware, USA, to honour 19 exceptional Nigerians with honorary doctorate degrees during its third Annual Induction.

    Among the awardees was Dr. Adeyeri Olayinka Jerry, who received the prestigious Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA), Honoris Causa. This milestone reflects the institute’s dedication to recognising individuals, who have made significant contributions to their fields and society.

    Speaking on the event, Dr. Alphonsus Okeoma, Registrar of MIMPS, commended the awardees, stating: “Their achievements embody excellence and inspire others to strive for greatness. We are proud to celebrate their outstanding contributions.”

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    Jerry expressed gratitude for the honour, saying, “I am deeply humbled and excited by this recognition. It strengthens my resolve to leverage my experience and expertise to advance the values of MIMPS, positively influence marketing communications in business administration, and champion the narrative of culture across all spheres.”

    As part of its ongoing commitment to professional development, MIMPS is set to host the “Fellowship Investiture and Executive Development Workshop for Public and Private Workers” on Saturday, January 25, 2025.”

  • UNILAG honours two students with 5.00 CGPA score

    UNILAG honours two students with 5.00 CGPA score

    By Jane Francis Chibuzor

    The Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, has honoured two of its students, Haroun Adebakin and Samuel Badekale, for achieving a historic feat: graduating with a perfect CGPA of 5.00 in the 2023/2024 academic session.

    The students from the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, University of Lagos, were presented with the prestigious Plaque of Honour, by the Dean, Faculty of Science, Prof. Olayinka Asekun. The presentation was at the Faculty of Science 2025 Hooding ceremony, which was part of the UNILAG 55th Convocation ceremonies held at the Staff School Hall on Monday.

    Adebakin, who expressed his gratitude and joy, said: “I feel very happy and elated to be graduating with this feat. I’m very grateful to God and glad for this opportunity. It’s a privilege to be one of the world’s best graduating students with a perfect CGPA of 5.00.”

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    He urged his fellow students never to give up on their dreams regardless of their circumstances.

    “To my fellow youths, I would say never give up. Keep striving for success and find a supportive environment around you. Irrespective of your background or the environment you’ve grown in, irrespective of any limiting factors, you’ve got your own God-given talents. Believe in them, nurture them, and find the right mindset. Keep going, never give up, and put in the work. You’ll be successful,” he advised.

    For Samuel Badekale, the achievement was equally momentous and served as a personal fulfillment of a long-held dream. “I feel very glad to find that the dream has finally been realised,” he said. “This is just the beginning for me. I’m very glad to receive all of these prizes and awards, but it’s also a call to action. As much as I feel good, I realise that this success sets a standard, one I must strive to uphold as I move forward.”

  • Alli-Balogun unveils Lagos support programme for WAEC, NECO candidates

    Alli-Balogun unveils Lagos support programme for WAEC, NECO candidates

    The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in Lagos State has unveiled and presented a support Programme for West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council (NECO) candidates, called, “Eko Learners Support”.

    This was unveiled at the Education Resource Centre, Ojodu, Lagos, on Tuesday.

    The programme is designed to broadcast a head-start of 320 lessons in 10 different subjects – English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Government, History, Literature-in-English and Yoruba – on Lagos Television (LTV) and other social platforms, with proficient teachers spearheading it.

    It is scheduled for 26 weeks in the period leading up to the start of public examinations with duration of 30 minutes per episode, with each episode, archived for easy access by learners and teachers.

    The lessons after broadcast on television, are archived permanently on social media platforms such as Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, and X_ (formerly Twitter).

    These platforms would enable the candidates continue to engage privately with these resources, give feedback, ask questions, as well as create a collaborative forum with teachers and other learners on the forum.

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    In his address, the Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, stated that the initiative would get the learners and candidates energise one another to improve performance.

    He added that the state government is passionate to create a supportive ecosystem that fosters academic achievement, creativity and critical thinking.

    “It is our belief that every student deserves the opportunity to attain their full potential, regardless of their background or socio-economic status.

    “This additional support is introduced by the ministry through its engagement with the private sectors and various initiatives within the education ecosystem to ensure that Lagos State candidates record impressive performance, results and attainment in external examinations,” he said.

    The commissioner noted that these lessons are developed and prepared in accordance with the Lagos State Government approved Scheme of Work and the WAEC and NECO syllabus.

    He added that the lessons are prepared and delivered sequentially to enable learners go back and select areas missed out, just as delivery pace will be most convenient to each learner.

  • Unregistered private schools risk sanctions, says Lagos ministry

    Unregistered private schools risk sanctions, says Lagos ministry

    The Lagos State Government has directed all unapproved and unregistered private schools to register immediately with the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) or risk sanctions.

    Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, gave the directive as part of the state government’s efforts to ensure that all educational institutions below the tertiary level meet the required standards and provide quality education to learners.

    A statement by the Coordinating Director of OEQA, Mr. Remi Abdul, quoted the commissioner as saying that registration is mandatory for all private schools and that failure to comply may result in sanctions.

    He directed unregistered and yet-to-be-approved private schools to submit their applications for registration from  January 13, 2025, “to avoid any consequences”.

    The statement reads: “There is a compelling need to ensure registration and documentation of all yet-to-be-approved private schools operating in Lagos State.

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    “Consequently, the Commissioner, Ministry of Basic & Secondary Education hereby directs all unregistered and yet-to-be-approved private schools operating within Lagos State to register with the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) immediately.

    “This directive is part of the ministry’s efforts to ensure that all educational institutions below the tertiary level meet the required standards and provide quality education to learners. Registration with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is a mandatory requirement for all private schools, and failure to comply may result in sanctions.”

    He said  registration’s benefits included  state recognition and intervention, access to technical and financial support, and staying informed about emerging policies and initiatives from both state and federal ministries.