The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Shettima seeks education system capable of addressing modern challenges

    Shettima seeks education system capable of addressing modern challenges

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for an education system capable of addressing modern challenges.

    Shettima made the call on Tuesday during the opening plenary of the Africa Student Leaders General Assembly and Ordinary Congress in Abuja organised by the Zonal Pastor, Christ Embassy Zone 1, Abuja Pastor Dipo Fisho.

    The event had “Pro-Africa Education System: A Key to Unlocking Africa’s Potentials” as its theme.

    The vice president, who was represented by Personal Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Domestic North – East, (Vice President’s Office), Mahmud Muhammad, urged African students to embrace the realities of the continent while striving for global excellence.

    He said: “Our education system must be rooted in African realities while reaching out for global excellence. It must address our challenges while celebrating our strengths.

    “We must ensure that our education becomes holistic, addressing not just academic knowledge, but also practical skills and critical thinking as well as solutions to real-world problems. We need an education that builds bridges between learning and doing, between tradition and innovation, and between wisdom and global knowledge.

    Read Also: Teachers’ absenteeism major obstacle to basic education in Kaduna

    “A pro-Africa education system must integrate indigenous knowledge to address modern challenges. To do this, embracing technology and innovation is essential, which will prepare our youth to be creators rather than just mere consumers. Additionally, community engagement is crucial to link education to local development and address real-world challenges. Distinguished delegates from the African continent, the time for action is now.”

    The keynote speaker, Prof. David Namwandi, a former Namibian Minister of Education and Founder of the International University of Management, who praised the President of All African Students Union (AASU), Comrade Osisiogu Osikenyi, for hosting the continental event, echoed the Vice President’s sentiments.

    He emphasised the need for a robust and practical approach to education to unlock Africa’s vast potential.

    He said: “For education to unlock Africa’s full potentials, we must address some critical issues. First, the curriculum: We must adopt a pro-African curriculum that prioritises African history, culture and innovation while embracing global advancements.

  • Varsity teachers: sustainable growth crucial for Nigeria’s future prosperity

    Varsity teachers: sustainable growth crucial for Nigeria’s future prosperity

    Acting Vice Chancellor, University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo, Imo State, Prof. Christopher Eze, has said only sustainable social development will guarantee Nigeria’s long-term prosperity.

    In his keynote address at the International Conference on Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards at Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Prof. Eze underscored the need for a paradigm shift towards sustainable development, citing climate change, economic inequality and social injustice as pressing challenges.

    Prof. Eze said: “We must address the pressing issues of climate change and preserve our natural resources for future generations. We need to reduce waste and pollution through sustainable practices.”

    According to him, by investing in renewable energy and transitioning to a circular economy will significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable growth.

    He pointed out that addressing inequalities would ensure everyone has access to resources, opportunities and basic services.

    “We must tackle poverty, ensure access to quality education, healthcare and decent work for all.

     “The time for action is now. By embracing sustainable social development, we can build a future where no one is left behind,” Prof. Eze urged.

    Read Also: Prioritise cyber security education for girls, ex-VC, Don urge

    He, however, expressed happiness that the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards,(FUTO CE-sPESS), has launched training programmes offering certificate courses to graduate degrees in Sustainable Social Development.

    Prof. Oti, who was represented at the event by Deputy VC, Academics, Prof. E.C. Esenwah, hoped at the end of the conference, the nation would have added muscles to ensure sustainability in our procurement process.

    Immediate past VC of FUTO, Prof. Francis Eze, advised that procurement should be done in such a way that the environment is not harmed and that the society has renewed diversity, renewed energy and human rights.

    He added: “This will enhance production, which will help to generate jobs and ensure corporations make profits without suffering marginalised communities.”

    In his key note address, “Unlocking sustainable livelihoods in the 21st century”, Prof. Eze said: “The pursuit of economic growth should never come at the expense of human dignity or social justice. Procurement decisions have a profound implication for labour rights, community wellbeing and equitable access to opportunities.”

  • Govt Model School Badore wins Lagos inter-secondary school quiz contest

    Govt Model School Badore wins Lagos inter-secondary school quiz contest

    Lagos State Senior Model College School, Badore has won the first position in the statewide grand finale of the ninth inter-quiz competition organised by the Rotary International District 9112, in partnership with the state Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.

    The school’s team of three pupils – Opoura, Oguntoye Emmanuel and Anyaorah Faustina – garnered 18 points.

    Other winners were Surulere Senior Secondary School, Eva Adelaja Senior Secondary School, Oworonshoki, Ilupeju Senior Secondary School and Iba Housing Estate Senior Secondary School.

     The Coordinator of the competition for Rotary, Afolabi Oluwasanu, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the contest. “Our rating of the organisation is 100 per cent. We achieved our objective,” he added.

    Read Also: Prioritise cyber security education for girls, ex-VC, Don urge

     He said for the first time, the competition covered the six state Education Districts and that the objective was to prepare the pupils for the future. The gifts presented to the winners and the non-winners were to encourage them to work harder, he said.

    He added that the event was sponsored by 18 Rotary clubs. They included Rotary Clubs of Gbagada South, Abijo Ibeju-Lekki, Akoka, Ikeja-Alausa, Ikorodu Metro, Falomo, Ikorodu Royale, Omole Ojodu, Ikoyi, Ikoyi Metro, and Lagos

    Others are Gbagada, Dolphin Estate, Lekki Golden, Mushin Metro, Revolution Lagos, Shomolu and Victoria Island Garden City.

    Earlier, Rotary International District 9112 Governor Femi Adenekan said the quiz was held because it is under their Basic Education and Literacy, one of their focal areas. He urged the contestants to give a good account of themselves.

    He said the fact that they got to that level indicated that they were champions from the various zones.

  • Issues in Polytechnic teachers strike

    Issues in Polytechnic teachers strike

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) commenced a two-week warning strike nationwide on Monday to make the Federal Government accede to their demands. The union complained that government has not given due attention to polytechnics, with only two issues partially addressed from the 11 issues raised.  Damola Kola-Dare, AbdulGafar Alabelewe, (Kaduna), Augustine Okezie (Katsina), Elo Edremoda (Warri), David Adenuga (Bauchi), Kolade Adeyemi  (Jos), Onimisi Alao (Yola), Mike Odiegwu (Port Harcourt), Segun Showunmi (Ibadan), Victoria Amadi and Ahmed Rufa’i (Dutse) report.

    ISSUES

    • Alleged violation of Polytechnics Act
    • Non-review of contentious, suspended document, entitled: Schemes of Service for Polytechnics and Conditions of Service
    • Non-release of the NEEDS Assessment intervention funds for 2023
    • Usurpation of Academic Board function by NBTE on admission of HND candidates
    • Non-capturing of the Peculiar Academic Allowance of members for sustained payment
    • Refusal of most state-owned polytechnics to implement the 35/25 % salary review for members
    • Non-release of the arrears of same in federal polytechnics
    • Non-release/resolution of owed CONTISS 15 migration arrears to junior members
    • Non-conclusion of FGN/ASUP 2010 agreement renegotiation process
    • Non-conduct of promotion exercises, arrears  in some state institutions
    • Alleged intimidation of elected union officials by some polytechnics

    Academic activities in federal and state polytechnics were grounded since Monday, following a strike declared by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) to press home the implementation of their demands.

    ASUP had, at a resolution reached at its 112th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, warned it would down tools across polytechnics nationwide as from   December 2, for two weeks in the first instance.

    The union wants government to address the following issues: violation of the Federal Polytechnics Act, non-review of the contentious and suspended document, entitled: Schemes of Service for Polytechnics and Conditions of Service, non-release of the NEEDS Assessment intervention funds for 2023, usurpation of Academic Board function by NBTE on the admission of HND candidates, non-capturing of the Peculiar Academic Allowance of members for sustained payment in the planned post IPPIS era.

    Others are refusal of most state-owned polytechnics to implement the 35 per cent/25 per cent salary review for members and non-release of the arrears of same in federal polytechnics, non-release/resolution of the owed CONTISS 15 migration arrears to members in the lower cadre, non-conclusion of the FGN/ASUP 2010 agreement renegotiation process, non-conduct of promotion exercises in some state institutions and non-release of promotion arrears in both federal and state-owned institutions and the intimidation of elected union officials by the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede and the non-release of the appointment of rectors in Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny Island, Federal Polytechnic, Oko and Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, even though the processes have since been concluded.

    However, on Monday, the first day of the two-week strike, some polytechnics witnessed a disruption in academic activities as lecturers stayed away from lecture halls in compliance with the national directive.

    Some branches in the South-east were unable to start the strike because of the sit-at-home observed in the five eastern states. Our correspondents sent in reports from the states.

    Lagos

    At Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), The Nation observed that academic staff stayed away from the lecture halls in total compliance with the National Council Executive (NEC) for the two weeks industrial action, while non-academic staff offices were in their offices.

    At  a  Congress,  which held on the campus, ASUP YABATECH chairman, Mr. Monday Ojo, noted that out of the 11 demands,  only one was attended to while one was partially met and other nine  remain unattended to, adding that the two-week warning strike will be strictly adhered to and monitored vigorously.

    He said: “Other demands have not been met and the government has not deemed it fit to invite the union, so after the NEC meeting, it was resolved that we should have a two-week strike at first instance depending on government position at  this point, then that will determine the next line of action. So, the NEC will reconvene to deliberate on what next, it could be two, weeks, one month or indefinite. Then, by next year, if nothing tangible is done, we can always resume action. That is why the national body has held Congress in all chapters to inform them of this.

    “There are issues for the seven percent peculiar allowance embedded on the IPPIS portal. We are being paid with GIFMIS, but the seven percent is an issue of concern because it is not reflecting in our pay.”

     Ojo said the college management had been informed of the national directive, adding that the two weeks’ warning was to send a signal to the Federal Government to meet the union’s demands.

    The erstwhile president of ASUP, Anderson Ezeibe, said NEC directed members to embark on strike because the government had not given due attention to polytechnics.

    Ezeibe said NEC gave the government 15 days ultimatum in October and met with government officials and an action plan was designed. According to him, only two issues were addressed and the remaining issues were left out, prompting the two-week warning strike.

     Kaduna

    In Kaduna State, academic activities were halted on the four campuses of the state’s polytechnic. It was observed that at the main campus of the Federal institution in Tudun Wada and the College of Business and Management Studies (CBMS) at Ungwar Rimi areas of Kaduna, lecture rooms were empty and only a few students and non-academic workers were seen around.

    This also led to a partial disruption in business activities around the campus.

    Chairman of ASUP Kaduna Polytechnic chapter, Abubakar Jibrin Abdullahi, noted that   the strike followed the resolution reached at the 112th NEC meeting of ASUP to withdraw the services of all academic workers across the country’s polytechnic system.

    He said the Kaduna Polytechnic chapter of the union fully supported the strike.

    The ASUP chairman said the action was to protest the continuous failure of the Federal Government to honour its commitments, as outlined in the work plan agreed upon during the last meeting with the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders on October 23.

    “The issues leading to this industrial action include, Number One: Impunity in Rector Appointments; Violations of the Federal Polytechnics Act in appointing Rectors at Federal Polytechnic, Wannune, and Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, as well as the failure to appoint a rector for Federal Polytechnic, Damaturu.

    “Despite the National Industrial Court’s ruling, the Federal Government has neither reviewed these flawed processes nor held erring Governing Councils accountable. Number Two: Non-review of schemes of service. The contentious and suspended Schemes of Service for Polytechnics and Conditions of Service remain unresolved.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s administration committed to development of area councils – Wike

    “Number Three: Non-release of the 2023 NEEDS Assessment intervention funds. Number Four: The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) continues to interfere with the Academic Boards’ statutory functions concerning the admission of Higher National Diploma students,” he said.

    The union leader also claimed that the Federal Government failed to ensure the inclusion of peculiar academic allowance for sustained payment in the planned post-IPPIS era as one of the key reasons for the strike.

    He said the union was also protesting the unpaid arrears of members in the lower level

    Abdullahi berated the delays in conducting promotion exercises in some state-owned institutions and non-release of promotion arrears in Federal and state-owned polytechnics.

    He urged the Federal Government to address the issues to avoid further disruption in the nation’s polytechnic system.

     Imo

    In Imo State, the ASUP Chairman at the state’s polytechnic at Omuma, Dr. Julius Chigozie Offurum, said the institution supported the strike but would join the next day. He said Mondays were observed as sit-at-home across the state.

    The union leader said he had submitted a letter on the decision to join the strike to the institution’s rector.

     “I am just coming from the Government House to submit the national letter from the ASUP National President to inform the government about the decision to withdraw our services in two weeks. From there, I went to the Honourable Commissioner of Education. Before now, I had written an internal letter to our Rector, informing him of the national decision in this regard.

    “Monday is usually for sit-at-home in Imo State. By tomorrow, I will still be in school to observe the level of compliance by our staff members. But so far, everybody has been awoken to respect the decision of the apex union.

    “We are observing the strike fully and management is fully aware of that,” he said.

    According to him, there are reasons for the institution to join the strike.

    “We have an 11-Point Agenda, but out of these, they (governments) have only addressed one, which is allowing the institution to conduct the Higher National Diploma (HND) admission and then relate to the National Board for Technical Education (MBTE), not MBTE taking over.

    “The scheme of service which they brought is against the welfare of public servants. We have asked them to review it, and they constituted a committee on it. But we don’t know what the outcome will be.

    “We will proceed to an indefinite strike if our demands are not met. But I am not a lone decider of that,” he said.

     Delta

    At the Delta State Polytechnic at Otefe-Oghara in Ethiope West Local Government Area, the union leaders were silent on the two-week warning strike. As of press time, efforts to confirm if the strike was observed were futile.

    When our correspondent called the rector, Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, and sent a message to his mobile phone, he neither answered the call nor replied to the message.

    When contacted, the polytechnic’s Public Relations Officer, Sagboje Clinton, said he was outside the school on an official assignment and had sought to know the state of affairs from his “boss” following an earlier message to him, by the reporter.

    But he did not get back to our correspondent over the matter.

     Jigawa

    In Jigawa State, the five ASUP chapters in the state complied with the warning strike.

    ASUP’s Zone A Coordinator, Abdul’aziz Ibrahim Badaru, told The Nation that all the union’s members in the five Federal and state-owned institutions followed the national body’s directive on the strike.

    He said: “All the members of our association in the five institutions complied and are on the two-week strike, as directed by the national headquarters of the union.”

    The union leader listed  the institutions as Hussaini Adamu Federal Polytechnic at Kazaure; Jigawa State Polytechnic at Dutse; Bulyaminu Usman Polytechnic at Hadejia; Jigawa State Institute of Information and Communication Technology at Dutse, and Jigawa State College of Remedial Studies at Babura.

     Katsina

    In Katsina State, the state’s polytechnics were silent on their compliance with the strike as of press time.

    When our correspondent visited Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnics and the Federal Polytechnics at Daura, none of the union’s chairmen was willing to address reporters.

    HUKP’s ASUP Chairman Nasir Gidado did not pick his calls when The Nation called yesterday to verify the level of compliance with the strike.

     Oyo

    There were academic activities yesterday at The Polytechnic in Ibadan, the Oyo State-owned institution.

    The institution’s ASUP Chairman, Dr. Kola Lawal, noted that a staff audit was taking place in the institution, as directed by the state government. Thus, it was difficult for the polytechnic to comply with the strike.

    Lawal explained that activities in the institution were going well without any interruption.

    A visit to the South campus, E-library, Central Administration building, CEC, CIDM, and Examination and Records, showed no sign of a strike in the school.

     Rivers

    Also, the strike did not have a major impact at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas on Bonny Island in Rivers State. The Nation learnt that students of the polytechnic had concluded their examinations and were already on holiday when it was declared. A senior lecturer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the strike would only affect the meeting of the Academic Board of the institution.

    He said: “There is nothing much the strike will achieve in this school because almost all the academic work had been concluded for the session.

    “Lectures and examinations have been concluded and the students have gone home for holiday to resume in January. The only thing the strike will affect is the meeting of the Academic Board. If the strike continues, the board cannot meet. “It is advisable for the government to resolve all the issues now because if the strike persists till the resumption of school, it will surely affect academic activities.”

     Adamawa

    Also, the ASUP branch at the Adamawa State Polytechnic in Yola said it will meet to mobilise members for the strike.

    A top official of the branch, who pleaded anonymity, said the meeting is a routine to announce the start of the strike at the local level.

    “We have the memo from headquarters, but the routine is that we at our level will meet and formally mobilise to implement the directive from above,” the ASUP official said, objecting to being named because official communication can only be made after the scheduled meeting.

    It was learnt that the Federal Polytechnic in Mubi joined the strike. But no ASUP official at the polytechnic could be reached for comment yesterday on the state of the action.

     Plateau

    The Plateau State Polytechnic in Barkin Ladi, near Jos, and other polytechnics in the state joined the warning strike. Even non-academic workers joined the action.

    ASUP Chairman at the state polytechnic, Mahanan Dang, said the chapter complied with the directive of the national body.

    Dang named the institutions that joined the strike as: the College of Health Technology at Zawan and the Pankshin and College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies at Kurgwi.

    Bauchi

    At the Federal Polytechnic in Bauchi, the ASUP members said they joined the two-week nationwide strike. ASUP President at the polytechnic, Shammah Kpanja, expressed frustration over the government’s failure to address key issues affecting the sector, despite an earlier ultimatum. ASUP’s Secretary at the Federal Polytechnic in Bauchi, Hussain Yaro Ali, confirmed that though the polytechnic was not in session, it joined the strike.

     “Yes, we have joined the strike, as directed by the NEC of the union. Besides, our school has concluded the 2023/2024 session. Sorry, I’m in a meeting,” Ali said.

    Also, the Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic (ATAP) in Bauchi said it was deliberating on whether or not to join the strike.

  • Teachers’ absenteeism major obstacle to basic education in Kaduna

    Teachers’ absenteeism major obstacle to basic education in Kaduna

    Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) has identified teachers’ absenteeism as one of the major obstacles to basic education in Kaduna.

    PLANE’s State Team Lead, Diana Agabi, stated this in Kaduna during the Learning Outcomes Data Dissemination Workshop organized by PLANE and the Kaduna State Ministry of Education.

    The workshop underscored the collaborative efforts between the Kaduna State Government and PLANE, reinforcing their shared commitment to providing quality education for all children across the state.

    While highlighting the workshop’s core focus on enhancing teacher capacity and providing essential learning materials, Agabi said, “Our focus is to improve learning outcomes from day one by equipping teachers with effective pedagogy and providing learners with books, guides, and mentorship.

    She however identified the major obstacles, particularly in the northern senatorial district, as low attendance and absenteeism among both teachers and learners, describing it as critical challenge.

    Agabi noted that many teachers posted to rural areas face economic hardships, including high transportation costs, limiting their ability to attend school regularly.

    According to her, “Some teachers can only afford to be present two days a week, leading to serious learning gaps.”

    “The irregularity in teacher attendance has eroded parents’ confidence in the education system. When parents are unsure if teachers will be present, they often stop sending their children to school altogether,” Agabi said,

    He however called for collective action to ensure consistent teacher presence and regular student attendance.

    In her presentation, Agabi disclosed that, there is an ongoing efforts to train 1,758 teachers on inclusive instruction and gender-sensitive education, the distribution of teaching materials to 698 schools, and the development of Braille resources for visually impaired learners.

    She further noted that, Kaduna State government is committed to ensuring continuous capacity building through data management training for local education officials.

    Also speaking at the Workshop, Deputy Director of Planning, Abbas Shehu, who represented Kaduna State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Muhammad Sani Bello emphasized the state’s dedication to using data for educational improvement.

    Prof. Bello while reiterating the State Government’s commitment to improving the quality of education, noted that, data-driven decision-making is crucial for identifying areas of strength and addressing gaps.

    Prof Bello however commended PLANE for its support in organizing the workshop, which provided a platform to review progress in improving learning outcomes.

  • Prioritise cyber security education for girls, ex-VC, Don urge

    Prioritise cyber security education for girls, ex-VC, Don urge

    The immediate past Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Prof. Chinedum Babalola, the President and Provost of ICLED Business School Lekki, Lagos, Prof. Olajumoke Adeosun-Familoni, a Fellow of the Nigerian School on Internet Governance, Ms. Tinuade Oguntuyi, Mrs. Sonde-Ikokoh Iyanuoluwa of the Girls Guide Association and others have urged educators, parents, and policymakers to prioritise cyber-security education for girls.

    They stated that girl child must be equipped to navigate digital landscape confidently and securely.

    Speaking at the ICLED annual conference on importance of cyber-security to girl child in Abeokuta Babalola, who was represented by Dr. Adedoyin Oyinlola, stated that the impact of cyber-bullying on young girls could not be overemphasised.

    He called for creation of a supportive online community for the girl child, adding that internet never forgets, so it is importance to have clean record online, especially for the sake of the future.

    Adeosun-Familoni, who is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Global Initiatives for Entrepreneurship and Capacity Development, said the role of education in fostering a culture of cyber-security awareness among young women is pivotal.

    Oguntuyi emphasised the significance of cyber-security education for the girl child.

    She said: “In today’s digital age, our girls are not only users of technology but also potential creators. It is essential that they understand how to protect themselves online and harness technology safely.”

    Mrs. Sonde-Ikokoh Iyanuoluwa shared insights on coding and digital literacy, highlighting how digital skills can empower girls and lead to better career opportunities.

    Read Also: Experts call for cyber-security education to empower the girl child 

    Olori Amina Data said:“Cyber-security is not just a technical issue; it’s a vital skill that our girls need to thrive in today’s digital age, we are committed to equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate this world confidently and securely.”

    The Programme Coordinator of ICLED Business School, Ope Akomolafe, lauded participants for their insights.
    ICLED NGO, Global Initiative for Entrepreneurship and Capacity Development is a non-governmental organisation focused on the empowerment of the girl child and women.

    Over the years, the NGO has organised conferences aimed at raising social awareness for the girl child.

    This year’s conference was done in collaboration with Solace Foundation, founded by Olori Amina Data Matenuola, Olori of Olowu of Owu Kingdom, The Girl Guides Association of Nigeria and The Soroptimist Foundation.

    The conference was to raise awareness about the critical role of cybersecurity in empowering young girls and ensuring their safety in an increasingly digital world.

    It was a part of a broader initiative to empower young girls in technology and cyber-security, and pave the way for a safer, and more inclusive future.

    The event drew participants from Abeokuta Grammar School, Lisabi Grammar School, Girls Guide Association, the Pad drive initiative and the Dance Theatre for Entertainment.

    The participants engaged in interactive workshops and discussions that focused on practical strategies for enhancing cyber-security awareness, topics ranging from online safety tips to understanding privacy settings on social media platforms.

    The girls were taught how to adequately create a very secure password for their emails and other social media platforms to prevent being cyber-attacks.

  • Experts call for cyber-security education to empower the girl child 

    Experts call for cyber-security education to empower the girl child 

    At the ICLED annual conference on cyber-security in Abeokuta, scholars and experts have urged educators, parents, and policymakers to prioritize equipping girls with the skills to navigate the digital world securely. 

    Prof. Chinedum Babalola, immediate past Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, represented by Dr. Adedoyin Oyinlola, highlighted the serious impact of cyberbullying on young girls and called for creating a supportive online community.

    She stressed the importance of maintaining a clean online record, noting, “The internet never forgets.” 

    Prof. Olajumoke Adeosun-Familoni, President and Provost of ICLED Business School and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Global Initiatives for Entrepreneurship and Capacity Development, emphasized the critical role of education in fostering a culture of cyber-security awareness among young women. 

    Keynote speaker Ms. Tinuade Oguntuyi, a Fellow of the Nigerian School on Internet Governance, and Mrs. Sonde-Ikokoh Iyanuoluwa of the Girls Guide Association, also underscored the importance of empowering the girl child with knowledge and tools to navigate the digital landscape confidently and responsibly. 

    The conference served as a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies to build cyber-security awareness and resilience among girls in a rapidly evolving digital age. 

    She said: “In today’s digital age, our girls are not only users of technology but also potential creators. They must understand how to protect themselves online and harness technology safely.”

    Mrs. Sonde-Ikokoh Iyanuoluwa shared insights on coding and digital literacy, highlighting how digital skills can empower girls and lead to better career opportunities.

    Earlier in her opening remark, Olori Amina Data said: “Cyber-security is not just a technical issue; it’s a vital skill that our girls need to thrive in today’s digital age, we are committed to equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate this world confidently and securely.”

    The Programme Coordinator of ICLED Business School, Ope Akomolafe, lauded participants for their insights.

    ICLED NGO, Global Initiative for Entrepreneurship and Capacity Development is a non-governmental organisation focused on the empowerment of the girl child and women.

    Read Also: Lagos Disability office empowers 150 senior citizens

    Over the years, the NGO has organised conferences aimed at raising social awareness for the girl child.

    This year’s conference was done in collaboration with the Solace Foundation, founded by Olori Amina Data Matenuola, Olori of Olowu of Owu Kingdom, The Girl Guides Association of Nigeria, and The Soroptimist Foundation.

    The conference was to raise awareness about the critical role of cybersecurity in empowering young girls and ensuring their safety in an increasingly digital world.

    It was part of a broader initiative to empower young girls in technology and cyber-security and pave the way for a safer, and more inclusive future.

    The event drew participants from Abeokuta Grammar School, Lisabi Grammar School, the Girls Guide Association, the Pad Drive initiative, and the Dance Theatre for Entertainment. 

    The participants engaged in interactive workshops and discussions that focused on practical strategies for enhancing cyber-security awareness, topics ranging from online safety tips to understanding privacy settings on social media platforms.

    The girls were taught how to adequately create a very secure password for their emails and other social media platforms to prevent cyber-attacks.

  • Scholar, researcher, advocate more funding for self-employed

    Scholar, researcher, advocate more funding for self-employed

    A professor of psychiatry and immediate past provost, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan (CoMUI), Olayinka Omigbodun, has called on the government to take advantage of the huge percentage of self employed women and informal sector to improve the economy. 

    The scholar, who said by empowering women who statistics revealed are about 85 percent self employed, government will be doing so much in reviving the economy.

    She spoke while fielding questions from reports at the opening of a six week training of about 100 self employed young women who are selected from different parts of Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The project is called “Understanding the Gendered Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Young Self-Employed Nigeria Women and Co-Producing Solutions that Foster Better Systems and Well-being” which was branded as: “Advancing Resiliency in Self-Employed young women in Nigeria (Arise and Win).

    Omigbodun who is the principal investigator for this Arise and Win project said the effort is a pilot testing and a co-produced comprehensive intervention that was developed with the policymakers, self-employed young women, researchers, based on the research evidence. 

    She said: “Eighty six (86) percent of women in employment in Nigeria are self employed and many of them lack support that they need to thrive in business and life and have optimal wellbeing. 

    “They need acceptable, accessible, co-produced interventions which is the gap that Arise and Win project is trying to fill. Almost 80 percent of men are also in the self-employed sector. So that’s the sector that our policymakers and government should actually focus on.

    “If we are saying most of the working age are in self-employment, the government must be sensitive, must be aware, and understands the importance of investing. That is the place, one of the places they will really invest in, to grow our economy.

    “Even those in wages are few. But these are the people, this is the army that’s going to help boost Nigerian economy. So that’s what we’re doing.”

    Also speaking, the lead postdoctoral fellow on the Arise and Win project, Dr Iyeyinka Kusi-Mensah said the focus of the training was due to studies which showed that during the Covid-19 pandemic, women suffered much more than men, as they were stuck at home because they had children to look after.

    She said the training consist of two major parts about what self-employed women needs to know, saying, “We have put together a package which is going to consist of two major aspects. One aspect is capacity building on what sort of things do self-employed women need to know. So we are going to be teaching them things about health and well-being, physical health, mental health.

    “We are going to be teaching them things on economic, how to financial management. We are going to be teaching them about their rights, they need to know what are their rights, what is available for them if they are in trouble. We are going to be teaching them if they need soft loans, how do they take it, everything pertaining to managing a business.

    “We are going to teach them about digital space, if this is the age of artificial intelligence, how do I move my business online? Many of them can use their AI to do designs, well AI is not on the syllabus here, but I’m just saying that if you are a self-employed young woman or man or if you are in employment and you don’t have digital skills, the world will leave you behind.”

  • Oyo govt set to onboard 5,600 newly recruited teachers

    Oyo govt set to onboard 5,600 newly recruited teachers

    The Oyo state government has announced plans to onboard 5,600 newly recruited teachers, starting with a verification exercise scheduled from December 5 to December 16, 2024.

    Speaking in Ibadan, the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), Dr. Nureni Adeniran, said that the verification would take place at the board’s headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan.

    He explained that the exercise, spanning eight working days, aims to confirm the credentials of the first batch of recruits approved by Governor Seyi Makinde. 

    Dr. Adeniran emphasised the administration’s commitment to teachers’ welfare, noting that the verification process would involve relevant stakeholders.

    He added that candidates are required to present documents such as certificates of local government of residence, birth certificates, National Identification Number (NIN), original academic and NYSC certificates, and other relevant credentials.

    Read Also: Oyo govt okays over 70% budget increase for persons with disabilities

    The verification schedule is as follows: Thursday, December 5, 2024, for candidates from Akinyele and Ido Local Government Areas, followed by Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East, and Oyo West LGAs on Friday, December 6. On Monday, December 9, candidates from Lagelu and Egbeda LGAs will undergo verification, while candidates from Ibadan North, Ibadan North-East, Ibadan North-West, Ibadan South-East, and Ibadan South-West LGAs will be verified on Tuesday, December 10.

    On Wednesday, December 11, the exercise will include candidates from Ibarapa Central, Ibarapa East, Ibarapa North, Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, Ogo-Oluwa, Olorunsogo, and Oriire LGAs. Candidates from Iseyin, Oluyole, and Ona-Ara LGAs will be attended to on Thursday, December 12, followed by Atisbo, Irepo, Itesiwaju, Iwajowa, Kajola, Oorelope, Saki East, Saki West, and Surulere LGAs on Friday, December 13.

    The final day, Monday, December 16, is reserved for people with disabilities and caregivers. Each verification session is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. daily at the OYOSUBEB headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan. Candidates are advised to attend on their designated days with all required documents.

  • How Uyiosa Ugiagbe is redefining Africa’s STEM education landscape

    How Uyiosa Ugiagbe is redefining Africa’s STEM education landscape

    In Africa’s educational renaissance, Uyiosa Ugiagbe stands out as a transformative leader reshaping access to STEM education. As a Mathematics Education researcher and advocate, Uyiosa founded the Aspire Uyiosa Achievers Foundation to bridge gaps for underserved communities. His mission: to nurture problem-solvers and innovators equipped to lead Africa’s future.

    From educational policy engagement to STEM education empowerment, the Aspire Uyiosa Achievers Foundation is a beacon of hope for communities historically marginalized in education. What sets this initiative apart is its dual focus on equipping educators with cutting-edge educational tools while simultaneously fostering an environment where students from underserved backgrounds can thrive. The Foundation’s approach combines technology and culturally responsive pedagogy, offering resources tailored to minoritized and underserved populations. “Education should transcend limitations,” Ugiagbe says. “We’re creating spaces where every student can dream big and innovate.”

    A highlight of this effort is the upcoming Education of the 21st Century Summit scheduled to hold sometime in December 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria. In partnership with select secondary schools in the nation’s capital, the summit seeks to provide a space to discuss the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in education, empowering educators with practical strategies and tools for innovation. Featuring keynote speakers, panels, and interactive sessions, it exemplifies Aspire Uyiosa Achievers Foundation’s commitment to tackling systemic barriers in education.

    The Foundation’s initiatives also include scholarships, mentorships, and community projects that apply STEM to real-world challenges, with several of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serving as its north star. By empowering educators and students alike, Aspire Uyiosa Achievers Foundation seeks to foster a generation ready to tackle global challenges.

    As Aspire Uyiosa Achievers Foundation grows, Ugiagbe’s vision of equitable education gains momentum, proving that education is not just a tool for change—it’s a catalyst for societal transformation. Under Ugiagbe’s leadership, this initiative is shaping Africa’s future, one innovation at a time.