The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • NAPS partners firm to provide affordable internet for Poly students

    NAPS partners firm to provide affordable internet for Poly students

    The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has partnered with Tridentnet Wireless Nig. Ltd for affordable internet for students in Polytechnics across Nigeria.

    The partnership was to addressed Internet:related challenges facing Polytechnics students in Nigeria.

    Speaking in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital while signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the firm, NAPS Senate President, Com. Adeniji Temitope described service of the firm as the cheapest facilities for Polytechnic Students in Nigeria.

    He lamented that many students face difficulty in accessing wireless internet facilities while on campus, while many of them do pay for ICT and Internet without enjoying the benefits.

    He noted NAPS leadership has gone out to find a solution to the problem by partnering with Tridentnet Wireless Nig Ltd for affordable internet for Nigerian Polytechnic students.

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    He said: “As we all know that Internet access is one of what can make study easier for us, that is why we approach different companies to provide wireless Internet for us our campuses before we meet Tridentnet Wireless Nig. Ltd and they are ready to take easy access for us.

    “We all Polytechnic and other affiliate institutions are for research and to

    provide technology advancement to grow the Nigeria Economy.

    “Tridentnet Wireless Nig. Ltd is the cheapest among the companies we approach and they are ready to provide standard service to our follow students across the country.”

    He called on all Management, Rectors, Provost of the institutions and National Board of Technical Education (NBTE) to support the great initiative from NAPS.

    Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tridentnet Wireless Nigeria Ltd, Sobowale Adeniran said the firm wass ready to partner with NAPS in providing affordable internet facilities to Polytechnic students.

    According to him: “Our facilities are unlimited, it is cheaper, affordable and always available for students to use.”

  • Healthcare passion will drive your success, Provost Afolabi tells new students

    Healthcare passion will drive your success, Provost Afolabi tells new students

    The Provost of Premier College of Health Technology, Adekanra Ibadan, Dr. Kayode Afolabi, has urged students to let their passion for healthcare propel them forward in their academic and professional journeys. 

    Dr. Afolabi made this call during the maiden matriculation ceremony held in the institution’s auditorium, where no fewer than 250 pioneer students took their matriculation oaths on Thursday. 

    The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including the Alajia of Ajia, Oba Nureni Yusuf; the Oniladuntan of Laduntan, Oba Kamorudeen Adebowale; Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Sikiru Oyedele Sanda; Ona Ara Local Government Chairman, Hon. Kolapo Temitope Glorious; former Head of Social Work Department, University of Ibadan, Professor James Ayangunna; lecturer Dr. Abimbola Afolabi; and the Permanent Secretary of the Oyo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, represented by Pharmacist Olubukola Ayinde. 

    Addressing the students, Dr. Afolabi reminded them that their journey would not be without challenges but encouraged them to remain steadfast, driven by their passion for improving lives in Nigeria and beyond. 

    He highlighted that the college has obtained accreditation from federal regulatory agencies to train professionals in various fields, including Community Health Extension, Environmental Health Technology, Family Healthcare Technology, Medical Laboratory Technology, and Health Information Management, among others. 

    Dr. Afolabi also urged the students to embody integrity, compassion, and professionalism, emphasizing that these values are critical for their academic achievements and future healthcare careers. 

    “It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to usher in our first-ever matriculation ceremony and welcome you all to the Premier College of Health Technology, Adekanra, Ibadan. This auspicious occasion marks a significant milestone in the lives of our matriculating students as they embark on a journey of academic excellence and professional growth. It is indeed the beginning of a new chapter in the annals of our students and the college.

    “At PCHT, our mission is to contribute to Universal Health Coverage by ensuring the availability of Human Resources for Health through excellence and innovation in health training and career development for healthcare providers. In this regard, we strive for excellence in innovative education, training and career development for the Health Workforce. Our values, which all students are to imbibe are Passion, Integrity, Excellence, Innovation, Professionalism and Quality care.

    “Explicitly, at PCHT, we foster passion, creativity and innovation to make a difference in Primary Health Care and Universal Health Coverage. Also, we apply the highest standards of scientific and ethical integrity with responsibility towards the community and we strive to be outstanding in proffering excellent solutions to major challenges of Public Health concern.

    “We emphasized the use of technology to enhance teaching and training to prepare the students for a world that has become a global village, exposing students to e-learning and m-health opportunities. We train our students to leverage technology for learning and service provision. Premier College has well-equipped science laboratories, a community health skills acquisition laboratory, a computer-based laboratory with multimedia facilities and an environmental health museum among others. As an institution that imbibes co-curriculum, we have recreational facilities and extra-curricular activities. Our institution is situated in a serene environment that is most suitable for uninterrupted learning, and we are happy to occupy a large expanse of land for future expansion.

    “Premier College has received the accreditation by the appropriate agencies and parastatals of the federal government of Nigeria for the training of Community Health Extension Workers, Junior Community Health Extension Workers, Environmental Health Technology, Family Healthcare Technology, Health Technicians, Medical Laboratory Technicians and Health Information Management among others.

    “Currently we have a total of 175 scholarships cutting across different courses including Community Health, Environmental Health Technology, Family Healthcare Technology and Health Assistant. Our different Scholarship Schemes provide opportunities for deserving students to access quality training without financial shock. These scholarships are funded by Okunlola Foundation and Tolulope Afolabi Student Scholarship.

    “Our dear students, as you embark on this exciting chapter of your lives, I want to remind you of the immense potential that lies within each of you. This institution is dedicated to providing you with the necessary tools, knowledge, and skills to become competent and compassionate healthcare professionals. Our experienced faculty members are committed to guiding and supporting you as you navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

    “Remember, the journey ahead will not be without its obstacles. There will be times when you may feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or uncertain. But it is during these moments that your resilience, determination, and perseverance will be tested. Let your passion for healthcare drive you forward, and never lose sight of the positive impact you can make on the lives of others in Nigeria and beyond.

    “As you matriculate today, I urge you to embrace the values of integrity, compassion, and professionalism. These values are essential not only for your academic success but also for your future careers. Strive to be ethical in your dealings, empathetic towards your patients, and dedicated to providing the highest quality of care”.

    Other speakers at the event among whom are Professor James Ayangunna, Alajia of Ajia Oba Nureni Yusuf, ALGON Chairman, Hon Sikiru Oyedele Sanda and Chairman of Ona Ara local government area, Dr. Kolapo Temitope Glorious advised the students to remember the sons and daughters of who they are. 

    Other dignitaries include Mr Adesoji, the Librarian, oyo state College of Science and Health Technology who represented the Provost Oyo State College of Science and Health Technology, Eleyele, Dr Olanrewaju John Adedayo, Department of Environmental Health Science, Lead City University and Alhaji Akeem Akinyemi, Dean of Faculty of Social Management and Humanities, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo State.

  • Oyo, Aseyin hail Adegoke’s educational contributions

    Oyo, Aseyin hail Adegoke’s educational contributions

    Oyo State Government and the Aseyin of Iseyinland, Oba Sefiu Oyebola Adeyeri have commended the Aare-Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Olooye Adegboyega Adegoke for his contribution to educational development in the State.

    The commendation followed the commissioning of six blocks of classrooms constructed for Koso Community Grammar School, Iseyin by Olooye Adegoke.

    Speaking during the commissioning, Hon. Shakirat Hamzat, the Chairperson of School Governing Board (SGB) Koso Community Grammar School said the state government and the entire board are grateful to Olooye Adegboyega Adegoke for his kind heartedness towards Koso Community Grammar School.

    She said: “I find it quintessential that Olooye Adegoke has the educational progress of his alma-mater at heart. Your philanthropic mind is worthy of note and it serves as a means of cushioning the state government’s goals for education.

    “On behalf of the good people of Oyo State and Iseyin land, the Kabiyesi, His Royal Highness, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Ajirotutu l, we say thank you for bringing a new turn to Koso Community Grammar School, Iseyin”.

    While commissioning the classrooms, the Aseyin of Iseyin, commended Olooye Adegoke for setting the pace of development in the school. 

    The monarch thanked the philanthropist for remembering the school by donating a block of six classrooms despite the fact that he had left the place many years ago.

    Oba Oyebola said government alone cannot carried out the task of developing education in the state, saying there must be supports by members of the society.

    He called on other old students of the school and well meaning indigenes of Oyo state to emulate the kind gesture of Adegoke, saying such gestures will make life comfortable for students and staff and will provide a conducive environment for learning.

    “I am encouraging everybody that have passed through this school and others to come back and support this initiative”.

    Adegoke said government alone cannot tackle the task of educational development in Oyo State and has therefore called for the support of the old students as well as the well-to-do individuals in the state to lend hands of support to the government.

    He said the donation of the block of classrooms to his alma-mater, is his own little way of supporting the government in the development of education in Oyo State.

    According to him: “It is always good to give back to your alma mater and to support the government efforts in the development of education in our state.

    “Government alone cannot do everything, we have to support the government. The old Students have to support the government. The Community and the well-to-do in the society have to support the government. And that is why I came here to support the school and also to support the learning of the students.

    “Sometimes in the past I dug a borehole for the school just to support the students and the staff and ensure that they are learning and teaching in a comfortable atmosphere. That was done years back.

    “I thank God for what is happening today and what God has used me for, to help in the educational development of my state”.

    “Though I am from Ibadan, I had my Secondary education in Iseyin here. I had my Advanced Level education at Federal Government College, Ogbomoso and my Primary School education at Ibadan. I have been to all the zones in Oyo state and I can say that I understand the peculiarities of each of the zones of the state”.

  • Saint Finbarr’s College Old Boys’ Association honours Paul Okoku

    Saint Finbarr’s College Old Boys’ Association honours Paul Okoku

    1984 AFCON silver medal winner and former Super Super star, Paul Lucky Okoku, has been honoured by Saint Finbarr’s College Old Boys’ Association (SFCOBA) for his immense contribution to the body.

    Nollywood veteran actor and St. Finbarr’s College Old Boys’ Association (SFCOBA), pryesident, Patrick Doyle, announced the Distinguished Conquerors’ (DC) Award to Paul Okoku at the 2024 fundraising event of the St. Finbarr’s College Old Boys’ Association.

    The award was accompanied by the presentation of a commemorative plaque, highlighting Okoku’s remarkable contributions and achievements.

    The event took place in Arlington, Virginia, United States of America, celebrating his enduring legacy and commitment to the institution, association and community.

    Doyle flew in from Nigeria for the occasion which serves as a platform for the association members to raise funds for the support of Finbarr’s scholarships, buildings, renovations and other projects.

    “The Conquerors. Distinguished Conqueror Award presented to Paul Lucky Okoku, in recognition of your benevolence and outstanding support for the development and transformation of Saint Fibarr’s College Akoka, Lagos and raising the profile and effectiveness of SFCOBA,” the award plaque reads.

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    Okoku was also honored with a certificate of recognition in 2019, presented by Nathaniel Ogedegbe, the then President of the St. Finbarr’s College Old Boys’ Association North America (SFCOBA).

    The recognition acknowledged Okoku as one of the founding members of SFCOBA North America, a testament to his role in fostering unity and development among alumni.

    Today, SFCOBA North America continues to flourish, honoring the legacy of St. Finbarr’s College by fostering unity among its members and spearheading impactful initiatives to support the institution’s growth and development.

    Okoku, a renowned ex-international footballer and founder of the Greater Tomorrow Children’s Foundation (GTCF), has been widely recognized for his exceptional humanitarian efforts.

    The Rotary Club of Lagos Mainland also honoyred him with the distinguished Rotary Humanitarian Merit Service Award for his impactful contributions to society.

    The old pupils association of St. Paul’s Nursery and Primary School in Ebute-Metta, Lagos, presented him with an award in recognition of his remarkable support for the school and its students.

    The award ceremony took place during the donation of modern chairs and tables, generously provided by Okoku through his Greater Tomorrow Children’s Fund. Representatives of the association commended him for his unwavering dedication to improving the welfare and development of the school’s pupils.

    The Mainland Local Government Educational Authority honoured Okoku with a merit “Shield” award for his significant efforts in transforming the lives of children within the Mainland Local Government area.

    Presenting the awards during a lavish ceremony at the headquarters of the Local Government Education Authority in Yaba, the Executive-Secretary of the LGEA, Lawrence Adetona said the shield award, which is the highest recognition bestowed by the government on deserving and outstanding personalities, who have supported the drive to improve the lives of children in the society was given to the likes of Stephen Keshi, Paul Okoku and Godwin Odiye because of their support to pupils of St Paul’s Catholic School, Ebute Metta.

    Recalling that the trio donated laptops and a generator set to their former Primary School, Adetona said this gesture has already boosted the quality of education at the school.

    He added Okoku also sponsored the annual inter-house sports of the school and fed the children during Children’s Day and World Hunger Day celebration.

    A 1984 Nations Cup silver medalist, Okoku’s tireless commitment to philanthropy and community service continues to inspire and uplift countless lives.

    These accolades are just a few of the many honors bestowed upon Okoku, highlighting his enduring dedication to making a profound difference in the lives of others and creating a brighter future for generations to come.

    Okoku epitomises goodwill, a rallying force for development and progress who places a premium on quality education. Earlier this year, the former midfielder mobilised his former national team colleagues to award a full scholarship to Abdul Rahman Jeje, son of late Ali Jeje, to whom he was vice captain in the national U-20 team over 40 years ago.

    Before playing for the senior national team, Okoku was a the vice captain of Nigeria’s historic Under-21 team, which was the first time a national team represented the country in any FIFA organized World Cup tournament in football history of Nigeria. The U-21 team represented Africa at the FIFA World Cup championship in Mexico that year.

    Okoku is an integral supporter of Nigerian football teams and has consistently canvassed opportunities for indigenous coaches.

    He is alsk is a staunch advocate of welfare for children and the less privileged ones, which he has spearheaded through the Greater Tomorrow Children Foundation, which he founded and launched at a well attended ceremony in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.

    Being conferred with the Distinguished Conquerors Award (DC) by his alma mater St Finbarrs Old Boys Association is seen by fans and followers as a deserved reward for his efforts towards humanity and the game of soccer.

  • YABATECH to benefit from Fed Govt agric investment

    YABATECH to benefit from Fed Govt agric investment

    By Emmanuel Orji

    The Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) is set to benefit as the Federal Government has intensified efforts to invest a billion naira in selected polytechnics and universities who are into agriculture.

    Minister of Education, Dr  Tunji Alausa, who made the disclosure at his visit to the institution’s Epe campus, said  the visit was to raise further awareness and  encourage polytechnics and universities with agricultural departments to establish mechanized farms and engage in livestock farming.

    He said given the country’s growing food insecurity, these initiatives will provide agriculture students with hands-on training and help them develop key skills needed for life after graduation and will also support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s goal to enhance food security and expand food production.

    The minister who was received by the Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Funso Afolabi, and the Rector, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, emphasised the vital role of education in achieving national economic growth and development.

    He highlighted agriculture as a key sector that institutions must integrate into their academic and research frameworks to address food security, create jobs, and stimulate the economy.

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     “Nigeria is blessed with vast arable land and natural resources. However, we need to harness the innovative capabilities of our tertiary institutions to revolutionize agriculture.This sector, he admitted, has the potential to be the cornerstone of our economy, and the involvement of our colleges and universities is critical to achieving this goal,” he said.

    Alausa called on tertiary institutions in Nigeria to prioritise agriculture as the next wave of prosperity for the nation. The Minister commended the college for its strides in promoting vocational and technical education.

     He urged the institution to take the lead in developing innovative solutions that would empower students and researchers to make significant contributions to the agricultural sector.

    The Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Afolabi, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s visit, describing it as timely and encouraging. He assured the Minister of the institution’s commitment to supporting the federal government’s vision for a diversified economy through education.

    The Rector, Abdul also reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to aligning its academic programmes with the national agenda. He highlighted some of the ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting agricultural innovation, including partnerships with industry players and the establishment of a demonstration farm for practical learning.

  • NANS hail Tinubu’s aide for giving back to community

    NANS hail Tinubu’s aide for giving back to community

    The National Association of Nigerian Students ( NANS) Southwest , General Secretary, Comr. Olutunde Aboke, has hailed Hon. Khadijat Kareem Omotayo on the successful establishment of her Constituency Office.

     In a statement, Aboke,  praised Omotayo for her dedication to grassroots engagement and her efforts in fostering stronger connections between the government and the citizenry. He highlighted that the establishment of the Constituency Office marks a significant achievement in ensuring that all Nigerians, regardless of their location, have access to the presidency and can voice their concerns. He expressed confidence that the office would address critical issues affecting citizens, particularly in the areas of education and youth development.

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    Aboke encouraged Omotayo to continue her impactful leadership and reiterated the importance of service, accessibility, and accountability in governance. He looked  forward to witnessing more groundbreaking achievements from her office in the future.

  • How Idris is transforming education in Kebbi

    How Idris is transforming education in Kebbi

    When Nasir Idris assumed office as the ninth governor of Kebbi State on May 29, 2023, he embarked on a mission to redefine the state’s educational landscape. Idris has drawn on his experience as a former teacher and union leader to tackle some of Kebbi’s most pressing educational challenges. His administration is driving an educational transformation aimed at reducing illiteracy, improving educational quality, and positioning the state as a hub of academic excellence, Damola Kola-Dare reports.

    Prioritising teacher welfare and empowerment

    Governor Idris has placed a strong emphasis on improving teacher welfare, recognising their critical role in delivering quality education. He increased the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65 years and extended their years of service from 35 to 40. This allows experienced educators to remain in service longer, ensuring stability and continuity in classrooms. To address teacher shortages, his administration approved the recruitment of 2,000 new teachers across the state.

    Additionally, the governor raised teacher salaries to boost morale and encourage retention. These measures underscore his commitment to creating a skilled and motivated teaching workforce capable of nurturing Kebbi’s future leaders.

    Infrastructure growth and mega school projects

    Governor Idris has initiated large-scale renovations of schools to address the issues of dilapidated buildings and overcrowded classrooms. His administration allocated N8.9 billion for the construction and upgrade of 120 secondary schools. Furthermore, contracts were awarded for the construction of four mega schools — one in each of the state’s four emirate councils. These flagship institutions are designed to serve as models of excellence in learning environments.

    The improvements include modern facilities, new classrooms, and updated furnishings, creating a conducive atmosphere for effective learning. These efforts are not merely aesthetic but are vital to enhancing the overall educational experience for students and teachers alike.

    Expanding equal access to education

    A key focus of the governor’s administration is increasing access to education, particularly for the girl-child. In a state where cultural norms often limit girls’ educational opportunities, his initiatives have made significant progress. Female school enrolment has risen, breaking down barriers and fostering gender inclusivity.

    To demonstrate his commitment, the governor donated N50 million to Command Science Secondary School, Girls, Goru. His administration also covered NECO and WAEC examination fees for all students, alleviating financial burdens on families and increasing participation in critical assessments.

    Financial support for tertiary students

    The governor’s reforms extend to higher education, with substantial financial support for students in tertiary institutions. His administration paid N2 billion for students enrolled in Nigerian universities and allocated N723 million for Kebbi State students studying abroad in countries like India, Egypt, and Cyprus. These investments aim to produce a generation of skilled graduates who can contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.

    Elevating tertiary institutions

    Under Governor Idris, Kebbi’s tertiary education sector has witnessed remarkable progress. For the first time, governing boards were established for all state tertiary institutions, including Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero (KSUSTA), and the State Polytechnic, Dakingari. This structured governance ensures accountability and strategic oversight.

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    In another milestone, KSUSTA held its first convocation ceremony in over three decades, funded by the state government. The administration also upgraded the School of Health Technology, Jega, to a college and secured accreditation for its courses, enhancing its reputation and appeal to prospective students.

    Revitalising Tsangaya Schools and reducing out-of-school children

     Idris has made strides in integrating traditional Quranic schools (Tsangaya) into the modern educational system. By providing funding and incorporating basic literacy and numeracy skills into their curriculum, these schools now offer a balanced education. This approach respects cultural heritage while equipping children with the tools needed to thrive in the contemporary world, significantly reducing the number of out-of-school children in Kebbi.

    Strengthening monitoring and supervision

    To ensure sustainable reforms, the governor revived the inspectorate division within the Ministry of Basic Education. This division enforces quality control and supervises schools to maintain high standards. By prioritizing accountability and continuous improvement, his administration is laying the groundwork for long-term success.

    A vision for educational excellence

    In less than two years, Governor Nasir Idris has made remarkable strides in transforming Kebbi’s education sector. With over N10 billion invested, his administration has improved infrastructure, enhanced teacher welfare, and removed financial barriers for students. By prioritizing access, quality, and inclusivity, the governor has set Kebbi State on a path toward becoming a leader in educational excellence in Nigeria.

    His vision and reforms are equipping Kebbi’s youth with the tools they need to succeed, creating a brighter future for the state and its people. Governor Idris’ achievements reflect a deep commitment to progress, ensuring that every child in Kebbi has the opportunity to learn, grow, and excel.

  • Why Lagos is against mass promotion of pupils, by ministry

    Why Lagos is against mass promotion of pupils, by ministry

    The Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Kayode Sutton, has explained why the ministry is insisting on merit in promotion of pupils.

    In an interview with The Nation on the issue, Sutton called for scrutinisation of the causes and perpetrators of mass promotion of pupils.

    Sutton’s explanation came after the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamie Alli-Balogun, said the era of mass promotion of students in the state has ended.

    Alli-Balogun, who spoke on Monday while monitoring school resumption in the state, warned that teachers caught extorting money from students to award marks to them will be dismissed.

    He told principals, vice-principals and teachers that students not qualified for the next class must repeat.

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    But, Sutton noted that most schools reprimand teachers for the students’ performance. This, he alleged, pushes some teachers into promoting some students, who do not meet up with academic expectations.

    He emphasised that efforts should be on preparing the students for the external examination, not on aiding them to scale through in internal examination. He added that external examination should be the right yardstick to judge students’ performance.

    “We have to look inward to why we are not really doing well when it comes to external examination like WASSCE and others. We need to look inward to what are some of the causes. One of such causes is that every child wants to be in Senior Secondary 3 (SS3).

    “Teachers are now being reprimanded for students’ performance. If a child does not have the prerequisite passes or marks to get promoted, they’re sometimes promoting them. It’s not enough to have thousands of them in SS3 and when they go for external examination, we don’t have a commiserate performance.

    We want the best in SS3, so that when they go for external examination, they would perform well. Parents should be informed that this is a win-win thing for the parents, the school and everybody. If your child didn’t do well in SS1 or SS2, there’s no point promoting him to SS3.

    “We need to take precaution and put some things right. We don’t need so many of them in SS3 sitting for the examination. We need to scrutinise them for the external examination. We need the best. Those who are not qualified yet should take their time to prepare themselves in order to qualify. This would help us have the best performances.

    “There should be a monitoring facility to fish out teachers aiding these students to pass. We need the best performance in external examination,” he explained.

    He also, stated that the state government invests a lot in the state’s education and should have excellent performance by students in return.

    “Lagos State government pays the bill. It’s not good that after the investment, we end up having low performance.

    “The expenditure in education by the present government as led by Governor Sanwo-Olu surpasses most states in Nigeria and we expect a commensurate performance in external examination

    “We are going to look into pass promotion, especially in SS3 classes. We are going to make sure we have the best students,” he assured.

  • Anchor University committed to raising impactful leaders

    Anchor University committed to raising impactful leaders

    Institution produces 292 graduates

    The Anchor University (AUL) Ayobo, Lagos, has reiterated its commitment to empowering students to have a positive impact and be change-agents in society.

    This is just as its vice chancellor, Prof. Samuel Oye Bandele, announced at a pre-convocation media briefing that 292 students would graduate on Friday at a combined convocation for its 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions.

    Giving a breakdown, the VC said the institution would present first degrees to 106 and 160 for both sessions and another 30 graduates from its top-up programmes.

    Bandele reiterated the institution’s resolve to deliver world class education and ensure spiritual and moral development.

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     He said: “The vision of Anchor University, as articulated by its founding father, Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi, is centred on providing holistic education.

    “This includes raising God-fearing leaders, delivering world-class education and fostering moral and spiritual development.

    “The university aims to empower students to become change-makers in the socio-economic landscape of Nigeria and beyond.

    “Our students are not just learning for personal success, but for the greater good of society. Our mission is to combine faith, learning and service in shaping our students for impactful leadership in every sphere of life.”

    Bandele noted that the school got accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to run Physiology and Software Engineering programmes.

    The VC said the institution’s Digital Humanity Centre had been repositioned to make its students globally relevant, adding that the Senate had decided that every student should add two professional certificates to the normal degree before graduation.

  • Govt, alumni partnership vital to education, says SOSAHIB President

    Govt, alumni partnership vital to education, says SOSAHIB President

    •Baptist High School celebrates 70th anniversary

    As the Baptist High School, Iwo, Osun State, celebrates the 70th anniversary of its founding, the National President, Old Students Association known as SOSAHIB, Chief Franklin Akinola, has stressed the need for a robust synergy between the government and alumni associations to take education to the next level, DAMOLA KOLA-DARE reports

    It is going to be a reunion and an avenue to relieve old memories when the old students of Baptist High School, Iwo, Osun State, converge to celebrate the 70th anniversary of their Alma mater. The school was founded on February 2, 1955. Thus, the old students, under auspices of SOSAHIB, are gearing up for what promises to be a scintillating celebration.

    The National President of SOSAHIB, Chief Franklin Akinola, noted that they are inspired to celebrate the 70th anniversary, which he described as significant because the school shaped them and contributed to their successes.

    He said: “Seventy years in the life of a human being is quite significant and it calls for celebration. The school will be 70 on February 2, and we feel like the school has come a long way and we decided to celebrate the school because it has impacted us.

    “The anniversary is so significant to us; it feels great to celebrate the school because it has contributed significantly to our lives. It has produced many professionals in different sectors / fields of endeavour – we have many doctors, accountants, engineers, technocrats and top military personnel from the school who are doing great.

     “The school has contributed significantly to education, especially in the Old Western Region, and in Nigeria in general. Apart from academic excellence, the school performed well in sports, at a time we won the Principal’s Cup Volleyball contest, among others. We have also produced great soccer heroes. With all the professionals in different fields of endeavour, we felt it was more than necessary to celebrate the school.”

    Akinola said the anniversary celebration would run for four days starting on Thursday, January 30 with a roadshow to create awareness in Iwo land, followed by a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of Bowen University and the monarch of Iwo land.

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    He noted that the following day, there would be an  anniversary lecture: “Baptist High School, Iwo: A Legacy in Question and a Future to Intervene” to be delivered by Prof. Amos Oyesoji Aremu, adding that  after the lecture, there will be a Jumat service at the central mosque followed by  a novelty match.

    “On Saturday February 1, we will commission a number of projects. Later in the day, we will have award ceremony and fundraising luncheon, where we will institute an endowment fund for the school.

    We are rounding off on Sunday, Feb ruary2 with a thanksgiving service at Zion Baptist Church. Thereafter, we will have our departure,” he added.

    The SOSAHIB President bemoaned the infrastructural decay in the school and other schools in the state. He blamed it on paucity of funds, lack of maintenance culture and policy summersaults of different administrations.

    He added that the Baptist Mission is also supporting the school to ensure that the challenges are addressed.

    Akinola stressed the need for robust synergy between the government and education stakeholders in Osun State to address the poor standard of education.

    For a vast improvement in education, he said old students had a huge role to play because government alone cannot handle the education sector.

    “It is a collective responsibility. There is little or no running cost from government, the budget for education is nothing to write home about. Education is key to our development. We urge government to allocate more funds to the education sector to address lingering problems. But beyond that, there should be better system in place to ensure transparency and accountability,” he said.

    He also advocated free education from primary level to senior secondary.

     While maintaining that the alumni associations have crucial role to play in redefining education, the Bobajiro of Iwoland said the school’s old students remain pivotal to its development.

    He said before now, they have engaged in so many interventions in the area of renovation, providing office equipment such as computers, printers, scanners, lawnmower for cutting of grasses, giving scholarship to students and many other things.

    “For this anniversary in particular, the interventions from SOSAHIB are unprecedented for this occasion. The level of support and intervention we are having now, we have never had it before.

     “During the celebration, we are going to commission a number of significant projects. One is a brand new gate for the school, which is an architectural masterpiece. We spent so much on the gate and it will be inaugurated during the anniversary. We have also introduced an Alumni Office to be inaugurated the same time. It will be a converging centre for old students of the school. It will be well-equipped and staffed, and anyone who wants to have the information of those who attended the school will get it in the database of the Alumni Office.

    “We have also remodelled the library built many years back and it will also be inaugurated as well as   two blocks of classrooms. We also have staff quarters being renovated and converted to Corps Members’ Lodge. We don’t want Corps members posted to school to start looking for accommodation. There will be two buildings for Corps members: one for male and another for female.  A lot of chairs and tables too will be donated to the school.

    “Though enrolment in the school has increased, we are still reaching out to the educational board for further increase. We are also reaching out for full staff to ensure availability of teachers. We are providing solar light and employing more security personnel. We are doing the fencing of the school.

    “People who have contributed to the progress of the school will be awarded that day, and during the fundraising luncheon, we will create an endowment fund   for various interventions in the school from time to time,” the President said.