The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Queens College, Ilogbo Junior High School win debate

    Queens College, Ilogbo Junior High School win debate

    Queens College Lagos and Ilogbo Junior High School have emerged winners of the 2024 Nigerian Youth Parliament Lagos Central Inter-Secondary School Debate on Drug Abuse, organised by the Lagos Central Senatorial District Representative in the 5th Session of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Abdulmumin Edidi.

    Participants debated on pressing topics such as ‘Students and not teachers are key to ending substance abuse in schools’, ‘Holiday jobs help reduce drug abuse among students’, ‘Digital skills training can help reduce substance abuse, and Mental health awareness is crucial to prevent drug abuse among youth’.

    The advocacy-debate held at Y-Arena Awolowo road Ikoyi Lagos, saw Afolorunso Oluwatobiloba and Chukwuma-Okoh Naomi of Queens College Lagos win in the senior category, and Igboeje Goodwill and Ikechukwu Godwin of Ilogbo Junior High School win in the junior category. Sari-Iganmu Senior Secondary School, Kings College Lagos, and Lagos State Senior Model College, Badore were runners-up in the senior category. Iganmu Junior High School, Sanya Junior High School, and King Ado Junior High School placed in the junior category.

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    Participants were awarded various prizes, ranging from laptops, mobile tablets, and educational materials, sponsored by the chief host, Gbolahan Olusegun Yishawu, Member, Lagos State House of Assembly, Eti-Osa 02.

    Edidi noted that the debate reflects a strong commitment of creating a future led by informed, empowered youth standing against substance abuse, adding that the initiative places youth at the forefront of change, equipping them with the skills and support needed to make healthy lifestyle choices and lead their peers toward a substance-free society.

    “Today’s debate holds special significance for me, as it marks one of my final duties as the Lagos Central Senatorial District Representative in the Nigerian Youth Parliament. This debate series began in 2022 as part of the Nigerian Youth Parliament’s Drug and Substance Abuse Control Policy. One of our core strategies has been peer-to-peer engagement, harnessing the power of young people to reach their peers directly.

    “Over the years, we have engaged 500 students across 90 schools, with a vision to include every school in our district. By empowering young voices, we are cultivating advocates who will impact their communities and champion a healthier, substance-free generation,” Edidi said.

    In a keynote address by former First Lady of Lagos State and Chairperson of L.E.A.R.N, H.E. Dame Abimbola Fashola, represented by Senior Programmes Manager at L.E.A.R.N, Mrs. Tonne Marques, substance abuse affects not just an individual’s health or future, but also has far-reaching impacts on families, schools, communities, and the nation’s economy”.

    Speaking on the theme: “Pioneering a substance-free generation, the First lady of Lagos state, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu called for the need to raise awareness, advocate for investment, empower the youth, facilitate dialogue and develop evidence-based strategies to combat drug abuse.

    “Drug abuse has become a worrisome menace which requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. The alarming rate of drug abuse in our society affects us all directly or indirectly, impacting the safety and security of our nation,” she said.

  • NDDC, RHI partner to provide pupils learning tablets

    NDDC, RHI partner to provide pupils learning tablets

    CAll it transformative education, you may not be wrong. Spearheaded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), the brainchild of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the project is aimed at making learning easy for primary and secondary school pupils in Niger Delta. The idea is to mix education with technology and innovation for the betterment and growth of the pupils.

    NDDC is leveraging digital learning resources to enhance education in the region in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals – SDGG-4, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

    To achieve this goal, pupils must be armed with digital tools and equipment to support their educational advancement.

    The NDDC and RHI partnership has come alive with the launch of a large-scale digital education initiative aimed at distributing 45,000 U-Lesson tablets to primary and secondary schools across the nine states in the Niger Delta.

    Excited by development, the First Lady, an educationist by calling, praised NDDC during the launch of the U-lesson innovation at the Banquet hall of the State House, Abuja.

    She lauded NDDC Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, and Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for the initiative.  Many schools in the region have received the U-Lesson tablets.

    According to the First Lady, the U-Lesson tablets initiative highlights the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the development of Niger Delta.

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    She said: “Digital lesson devices are revolutionising education in underserved communities. These devices provide access to a wealth of educational resources that will empower students to learn at their own pace, in addition to classroom teachings.

    “I was informed that the U-Lesson education software is tailored to align with the Nigerian educational system, ensuring relevance and effectiveness in our local context,” she said.

    She noted that using electronic tablets would enhance education in the region, adding that by distributing these educational software, services and tablets, “we are taking a significant step towards achieving the United Nations (UN) goals for education.

    The First Lady said she was confident that the Digital learning resources “will enhance students’ engagement, streamline curriculum development and accessibility, and ultimately boost student performance and achievement.”

    Mrs. Tinubu noted that digital devices are transforming educational access in underserved communities, and providing resources that foster academic excellence, creativity, and innovation.

    “These devices provide access to a wealth of educational resources that will empower students to learn at their own pace and style, in addition to classroom teachings,” she said.

    She said the U-Lesson software aligned with the Nigerian curriculum, stressing the importance of its offline video library, which allows students to learn without internet connectivity, and other features like parental controls and extended battery life.

    Mrs. Tinubu added: “This programme also aligns with the Federal Government’s Digital Policy, which aims to create an innovative digital learning ecosystem, foster local skills development, and establish sustainable systems. Nigeria cannot afford to be left out of the global village.”

    Welcoming guests at the event, Ogbuku, stressed the need to prioritise digital learning to create equal educational opportunities, particularly as many regional school facilities require repairs.

    “Unlike physical structures, digital tools do not need constant renovation,” he reasoned.

    Ogbuku said the event underscored NDDC’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of Niger Delta.

    “In addition to the distribution of these tablets, the NDDC has also employed the services of a consultant to train teachers in the use of U-Lesson tablets for effectiveness across the nine mandate states and nationwide.

    “Over the years, we have built schools, but most schools are dilapidated and need renovation. These digital devices will educate our children and boost innovative skills,” he said.

    Ogbuku observed that distributing the education tools was a practical demonstration of President Tinubu’s administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He said that the U-Lesson tablets initiative was not merely about providing digital devices; “it is a significant leap forward in our commitment to integrating technology into the educational processes that shape our children’s future.

    He said, “The software includes parental controls and a long battery life of up to 18 hours, making it a reliable and safe tool for students and educators.

    “By equipping our schools with these digital tools, we supplement traditional face-to-face instruction and empower students to master their materials and perform better in their tests and examinations. We believe that every student in our region deserves access to quality education.”

    Advising the students, Ogbuku said: “We hope that these tablets will inspire you to dream big, work hard, and achieve your goals. Education is the key to unlocking your potential and shaping your future.

    One of the software’s standout features is its offline video library, which allows learners to play, pause, and rewind educational content without needing an internet connection.

    Minister of Regional Development, Senator Abubakar Momoh, expressed optimism about the collaboration’s potential to uplift communities.

    “This partnership represents a shared vision of prosperity and self-reliance for every child, youth, and woman in our communities,” he said, highlighting its focus on education, health, youth empowerment, and agriculture.

    NDDC Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, emphasised the commission’s commitment to forming strategic partnerships. He said: “At NDDC, we aim to partner with the right people because we seek to change the narrative.”

    The founder of U-Lesson Education and Managing Director of U-Lesson Group, Mr. Sim Shagaya, said the tablets would put the children of everyday people on equal footing with those from wealthier backgrounds.

  • Lagos unveils ‘Innovate Eko STEAM Programme’

    Lagos unveils ‘Innovate Eko STEAM Programme’

    The Lagos State Government has unveiled the Innovate Eko STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Programme, aimed at inspiring interest in STEAM careers.

    The project was aimed  at commemorating the National Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) day, celebrated every November. 8.

    Speaking during the event, held at the STEM Lab, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Mr. Tunbosun Alake, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, described STEAM as the pillar for economic value creation.

    Alake encouraged students to show interest in innovation, science and technology, as such enabled them to build applications to solve problems.

    “You are never too young to start learning science and technology, because these will eventually enable you to contribute value to the society.

    “The passion for science will never go unrewarded. With a focus on science, technology and innovation, the sky is not even the limit, you are going above the sky, going to space,’’ he said.

    Also speaking, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, said that the programme was about the students’ progress, performance, and science-oriented subjects.

    Alli-Balogun said that STEAM was about the present and the future, and the realisation that people could not do away with science.

    “We need more teachers to teach sciences in our schools. We have mandated the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) to recruit more teachers so, that we can have additional science teachers in our public schools.

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    “Not only that, we are training the existing teachers from our own training facilities, from collaborative efforts of NGOs and interested stakeholders, and they have been coming around doing that.

    “We have been shortlisting about 10,000 teachers to be trained by Canadian institution through our effort, and out of this 10,000 teachers, I want to believe almost 60 per cent will go to sciences, because that is what we need most right now,’’ he said.

    The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State on Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Opeyemi Eniola, said that the Innovate Eko STEAM Project would focus on training of students in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics Technology, solar energy and visual processing.

    Eniola said that 100 students would be trained from each of the different education districts in the state.

    He said that the project also aimed to inspire the next generation of innovators and encourage interest in STEM careers.

    “The Innovate Eko STEAM Programme is a programme established to train students, to empower them to be self-employed, to empower them to be prepared for the future, to empower them to face the present and the future challenges.

    “This Innovate Eko STEAM project plans to train students, not just in robotics, but in artificial intelligence, graphics, design, ads, phone repair, solar panel, solar energy, both the management, installation, repair and care.

    “So, the main essence of Innovate Eko STEAM project is to ensure that we move from just being a consumption country to a more productive country, and we are starting with Lagos State,’’ the SSA said.

  • Social impact innovator launches fund for entrepreneurs

    Social impact innovator launches fund for entrepreneurs

    A social impact professional, Amos Ogunola, has launched $1000 support fund initiative to empower Nigerian student entrepreneurs.

    The goal, according to him, is to provide young aspiring business owners with essential skills and resources to scale their businesses and improve their economic opportunities.

    Amos, who is focused on economic empowerment through digital skills and financial education, explained that his journey into youth empowerment began when he facilitated an entrepreneurial programme in Ibadan, Oyo State, working with secondary school students to help them understand the basics of starting and managing a business.

    He said: “In those early sessions, I witnessed students strategising, holding meetings, and demonstrating remarkable leadership. This inspiring experience ignited my passion for empowering young entrepreneurs.

    “Today, I’m expanding this vision by developing an innovative Learning Management System (LMS) designed to train over 3,000 Nigerian tertiary student entrepreneurs.

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    “The platform aims to equip them (student entrepreneurs) with the tools to harness digital skills and improve financial education, enabling them to grow their businesses effectively. Beyond skills, Amos envisions creating a pitch platform where these young entrepreneurs can access seed funding—starting with the $1000 he is raising.

    “I have always believed in the power of youth for economic growth, and I’ve heard and witnessed countless stories of successful entrepreneurs who had a solid foundation right from their school days.

    This is why I am committed to creating opportunities that empower student entrepreneurs from the ground up,” Amos explained.

    By raising $1000, Amos aims to kick start the transformation of young entrepreneurs’ lives, providing them with opportunities for growth and financial stability.

    “I invite everyone to join me in this mission to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Together, we can build a foundation for sustainable growth, driven by the creativity and resilience of our youth. To support this initiative, please visit: gofund.me/08f9bacf”.

  • HESED unveils app for schools, others

    HESED unveils app for schools, others

    An indigenous firm, HESED Learning and Development Limited (HESED), has developed an application for schools, teachers, students, and parents.

     Known as HESED SMS, the app is aimed at providing access to quality and affordable education with the purpose of guaranteeing the future of the Nigerian child.

     With the HESED PQ App, students have access to over 30,000 interactive past questions for exam preparation. These learning materials are also available on-the-go on apps, desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones.

     Chief Executive Officer,  HESED, Matthew Odu, said: “Our mission is to provide comprehensive and innovative solutions tailored to the needs of schools, teachers, students, and parents because we are dedicated to bridging the gap in the education sector.’’

    He said HESED Edu Suite has two products, namely HESED School Management System (HESED SMS) and HESED Past Questions (HESED PQ).

    While the HESED SMS, is an all-in-one school management platform that streamlines and enhances school operations, to ensure every stakeholder is supported and engaged, the HESED PQ provides access to all time past questions on different subject matters based on Nigerian curriculum.

     “With our HESED SMS, our all-in-one school management platform, we streamline and enhance school operations, ensuring every stakeholder is supported and engaged,’’ he said.

     Odu, who is an entrepreneur and a chartered accountant, said students in senior secondary school have access to “all-time quality revision and practice questions in a safe online environment”.

    “We combine expert online tuition with proven learning techniques to provide high-quality and world-class learning materials, ’’ he explained.

     Each subject on the app has 5,000 questions and each question comes with answers as well as expert comments on the answers.  In addition, Odu said the Practice and Revision Questions are uniquely crafted and based on the national curriculum and international best practices.

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    The HESED CEO added that students can have access to  SSCE past examination questions in the past 30 years.

     Similarly, students will have access to past UTME questions and the solutions to these questions with a detailed subject matter expert comment on the HESED PQ app.

     Specifically, with HESED SMS, students can access learning materials from anywhere and everywhere, receive personalised feedback, stay updated on school announcements and access their results from anywhere.

     Odu added that apart from making it possible for parents to pay school bills easily, they can monitor their children’s academic progress via the app and also receive real timely updates on results and school announcements.

     “With HESED SMS, our all-in-one school management platform, we streamline and enhance school operations, ensuring every stakeholder is supported and engaged,’’ Odu said, listing the main features of the app to include resource management; result management; staff and student management; Secure online payments with immediate receipt,  and teacher-parent communication for performance insights.

     Other features are fee reminders, event updates; an Exeat module for tracking student whereabouts, and a digital leave request system for teachers. These features according to him, enhance communication between the school management and the parents.

     The key modules, according to the CEO, are staff and student management;  Fee management;  Exams and continued assessment management and Communication module.

    With the app, teachers can also deliver personalised online learning experiences; easily manage assignments and assessments; request leave digitally, manage E-lesson notes and schedule tasks.

  • Despite flood hazards, learning thrives in Bayelsa

    Despite flood hazards, learning thrives in Bayelsa

    • By Seliat Oseni

    For the Bayelsa State government, qualitative education is the right of every indigene irrespective of their status and stations in life, which is why the government has left no stone unturned to achieve this lofty height.

    Little wonder the state government designed an ambitious education reform programme to address the age-long challenges in basic education service delivery.

    Thus, on November 18 when children in state-owned primary schools in Bayelsa State resume from their flood break, which has lasted for six weeks, they will continue to benefit from BayelsaPRIME which is the state government’s basic education reform programme. But this is not a sudden start after a long lull in learning.

    During the flood break, an arrangement was in place to keep children learning through radio BayelsaPRIME@Home, which is an initiative under BayelsaPRIME ensures that lessons are delivered to children through two radio stations and small community radio stations.

    At present, 41,000 children in four local government areas benefit from Governor Douye Diri’s basic education reform, Bayelsa Promoting Reform to Improve and Modernise education (BayelsaPRIME). The programme has been identified as a game-changer in basic education service delivery because of its adoption of technology in addressing long standing challenges that have affected basic education, not just in Bayelsa but Nigeria, over the decades.

    A new model

    Three features make BayelsaPRIME different from how basic education is managed by most states: The teaching and learning methodology, the use of technology, and the teacher professional development strategy.

    BayelsaPRIME uses an entirely new teaching and learning methodology that centres on continuous training and professional development for teachers as well as the attainment of pre-stated learning outcomes for children. Proficiency in numeracy and literacy skills are a major priority, because literacy particularly opens up an opportunity of lifelong learning for children.

    “This method is children centric; it uses the play and participatory method to ensure that children are not only learning, but they are also contributing in class,” Mrs. Ebiegha Tarikye Favour, the head teacher of Isaac Jasper Boro Memorial Primary School in Yenagoa said during a tour of schools where the programme has been implemented.

    “One of the things we observed after implementing the reform is that children who were introverts and seemed to be in their “shells” started participating in lessons, as there was no more room for a child to be left out or behind in class activities.” Teachers have also been directly impacted.

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    Because of the need to keep teachers informed about developments in the science of learning which underpins BayelsaPRIME, quality assurance officers, school supervisors, and learning and development officers visit each school weekly. Their visits provide an opportunity for teachers to be directly monitored, and supported with coaching and mentorship to enable them better mirror all the tenets that make the reform programme what it is.

    At present, over 2,800 teachers and head teachers are in the programme. They are supported, not just with coaching and mentorship but also telephony-based technology in form of specialised teacher tablets and smartphones which are the bedrock of the technology that is being used to manage schools and classrooms.

    Through these devices, lesson guides are sent to each teacher, the performance of each teacher is monitored, the performance of the children is monitored, key details about teacher attendance, pupil attendance, challenges facing each school and other important issues that impact the performance of the schools are tracked.

    All the data is fed into a centralised data management system, which is accessible to policy makers at the Ministry of Education in Yenagoa and the Bayelsa State Universal BAsic Education Board.

    “It’s interesting how BayelsaPRIME has changed the behaviour of my teachers,” Mrs. Inisiseizibe Ezekiel, the head teacher of State School 1 Ologri said.

    “In the past, my teachers would resume school when they like. But at the moment, I see them show up a few minutes after 7am, some even arrive at school as early as 6.30am because arriving after 7.45am would mean they are late and that means the authorities at the State Universal Basic Education Board will know and ask questions.”

    The renewed emphasis of doing the right thing in schools has led to improvement in key performance indicators which are used to evaluate the performance of teachers and their schools. Before the implementation of the programme, teacher attendance was as low as 15% in some cases. At the moment, it has risen to an average of over 70%.

  • Rotary to students: steer clear of drug abuse, other vices

    Rotary to students: steer clear of drug abuse, other vices

    Nigerian students have been urged to steer clear of drug abuse and other social vices that can truncate their educational pursuit and future ambition.

    This charge was handed to students during an event known as ‘Interact’. It was the climax of a sensitization programme, held by Rotary District 9112, which had about 30 schools in Lagos in attendance.

    The District Governor, Femi Adenekan, encouraged the students to focus on their studies, saying Rotary was more particular about their future.

    “Rotary International takes this age bracket seriously because we believe that if we’re able to catch them young, it will guide your choices in life and career.

    “For some of us, we grew up like you. I didn’t have the opportunity to join any Interact Club when I was in school. And because I joined Interact as a young adult, I have grown to become a responsible adult.

    “I charge all of you to take serious your chosen vocations as that can define your life.

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    “This club will help you to change your decision-making process.”

    Past President Yetunde Dimowo, who chairs the group said, Rotary decided to bring the schools together to enlighten them on dangers of drug abuse, gender-based violence and for spelling bee competition in 2024-2025 Rotary year.

    According to her, Interact, which Rotary international began in 1962, was among others meant to inculcate virtues in the students who are leaders of tomorrow.

    She added that, her team had in the course of the week visited several schools where they engaged the students on different aspects of their lives.

    Dimowo, who lamented adverse effects social media are having on education, said the group saw the need to introduce a spelling bee competition.

    “We saw the importance of reading and spelling because we understand that children of this generation contend with a lot of contents in the social media space.

    “Now, many of our students have deficiency in English Language due to influence of social media.

    “This is why we reached a decision to introduce spelling bee and we are hopeful that it will go a long way to positively impact on them.

    “So, this competition is about placing our children on the right pedestals.

    “Essentially, we are set to disabuse the students’ minds on getting money quick syndrome, which is rampant among them today.

    “We also want them to accept the reality of education as a sure path to the zenith of their goals and career.”

    Three students eventually emerged as winners in the competition. They are Akinwande Elizabeth of Will’be Excellence School, Ikotun, Alomosho, got N50,000 cash reward. First runner-up, Olugbitan Osadebamen, and second runner-up both of Dolphin Senior High School, Obalende, Ikoyi, got N10,000 and N5,000 respectively.

  • FUTA opens application for Computer Science in Distance Learning

    FUTA opens application for Computer Science in Distance Learning

    The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) has opened applications for admission into Computer Science for the 2024/2025 academic session in the Open and Distance Learning Centre (ODLC).

    A statement by the ODLC Director, Prof. F. I. Alao, noted that the centre would expose all categories of learners and candidates to innovative blended learning approach.

    He said distance, the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and age are no longer barriers to getting a B.Sc in Computer Science.  It described tuition as highly affordable and lower than most regular programmes.

    Alao urged candidates to utilise the world class laboratories and computing facilities available, adding that they would be eligible for mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme on graduation before the age of 30 and get the same certificate as regular students.

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    He said candidates seeking admission to 100-Level should possess one of the following: five credits in the SSCE/GCE/NECO,  including English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology or Agricultural Science or Economics or any other relevant subject  taken in not more than two sittings.

    The don said direct entry applications into 200-Level requires two A’Level credit passes in Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry.  He said Upper credit pass in National Diploma in Computer Science from recognised tertiary institutions in addition to O/level is also required.

    He noted that those without JAMB-UTME result can also apply, adding that application form is N20,000.

    “Don’t allow your child lose this opportunity. It is a new dawn as technology drives the learning space, join the train. There is opportunity for young school leavers, working class and those in regular employment to apply.

    Visit https://odlportal.futa.edu.ng/account/student/login to complete your application and experience a highly innovative blended learning approach suited for all categories of candidates,” the don added.

  • Veritas varsity graduates 56 First Class students

    Veritas varsity graduates 56 First Class students

    No fewer than 795 students of Veritas University Abuja have graduated from the institution with many of the graduates going home with various academic awards.

    Of the figure, 56 students bagged first class degrees, 329 bagged second class upper degrees; 291 bagged second class lower degrees and 40 bagged third class degrees.

    Among the total graduates, 716 were undergraduates, while 79 completed postgraduate programmes, including postgraduate diplomas, master’s degrees, and PhDs.

    Also, the university conferred honourary doctorate degrees on the Archbishop Emeritus of Ibadan Diocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Alaba Job; Archbishop Emeritus of Owerri Archdiocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Anthony Obinna; the Asagba of Asaba Kingdom, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) and Kola Adesina, an engineer and the Executive Director and Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group.

    Vice – Chancellor of the university, Rev. Fr. Prof. Hyacinth Ichoku, said the institution is contributing to national development by adding to the rich human resource capital of the country and the world.

    He urged the graduates to fly high and soar like eagles, so that when those they leave behind see them in a few years, they too will believe they can succeed.

    The vice – chancellor said: “As you prepare to commence the next chapter in your lives, there are a few things that you must always keep close to your hearts and minds. Never forget your days at Veritas University.

    “The institutional memories you lived through and now carry with you must always be a light that guides your path. As your Vice Chancellor, I wish I could say that things will get easier from here for you, but nevertheless, since you have survived the academic rigors of Veritas University, I am rest assured that you can excel in the world beyond.

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    “For we have endowed you not just with the knowledge you require to excel, but we have built in you the formation that makes you strong, tough, resilient, and daring. You are no longer the naive novices who gained admission four or five years ago into Veritas University. You are now well-seasoned and experienced vanguards of knowledge, truth, and integrity.”

    He noted that Veritas university students have continued to excel on the global stage, performing brilliantly in national and international debate championships and innovative competitions.

    Looking ahead, the vice – chancellor said the institution hopes to have made significant progress, or at least commenced, the construction of the Engineering and Innovation Centre, which is estimated to cost over N2 billion.

    “Plans also include the construction of the Nursing Faculty Building, Food Courts, and a Shopping Mall at the female hostel to provide students with better dining options and shopping facilities,” the VC added.

    The Pro – Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council of the University, Dr. Matthew Kukah expressed his firm belief that the years spent at Veritas University have sufficiently prepared the graduates for the challenges facing Nigeria.

    He also expressed confidence that Nigeria would find solution providers to the myriad problems confronting the nation through the students’ innovations.

    Kukah said: “Students from Veritas University have proven their mettle through both local and international awards that you have won for individual and group collaboration. These are indicators that we are producing graduates who will not merely seek jobs, but will create safe and efficient spaces to excel. Your education is a key, not just a map. So, use it to open new doors of opportunity in a world that is fast changing. The future belongs to young men and women with ideas and the boldness to pursue them.”

  • LASU scholars seek stricter measures to curb rape

    LASU scholars seek stricter measures to curb rape

    • Hold seminar to  present findings

    A team of researchers at the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, has stressed the need for stricter punitive measures to curb rape in the country.

    Presenting  its research findings to the public last week at the ACEITSE Lecture Hall on LASU main campus in Ojo, Lagos, the team noted that sexual offenders should be dealt with, while legal reforms must be instituted, and laws on substance abuse effectively enforced.

    The research project was entitled: Emerging Patterns and Determinants of Rape: Comparative Study of Rural-Urban Communities in Nigeria.

    The team, while highlighting the    causes of rape, stressed that sexual offenders should face stricter punishments.

    The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, described the study as “an unprecedented, most comprehensive, and most profoundly empirical study on rape in Nigeria”. She charged relevant stakeholders to take the outcome seriously.

    The VC said the recommendations of the research should be taken seriously by stakeholders, including government agencies, lawmakers, advocacy groups, community leaders, school administrators, teachers, parents, guardians, religious leaders, individuals and the public.

    She urged everyone in  positions of power at any level to safeguard female children as well as adults  and aged women who are the major victims of rape in rural and urban communities.

    “Rape, you will all agree with me, is a global social and public health problem. In virtually all cultures, violent sexual engagement and defilement of all categories of females is a disturbing reality,” she said.

    The don reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to advancing research and innovation to make the institution the best in Africa.

    A highpoint of the programme was the unveiling of the project policy brief by Prof. Olatunji-Bello for the benefit of the university, the state, and the nation.

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    The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics and Principal Investigator of the research team, Prof. Olufunsho Omobitan, noted that the project had encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration across the university, involving scholars  from the departments of Economics, Sociology, Counselling, Geography and Planning.

    Coordinator of  research team,Prof. Onipede Wusu, said the project kicked off in April 2021 with the N34 million research grant from TETFUND. He said the team utilised a mixed-method approach to generate and analyse quantitative and qualitative data on emerging patterns and determinants of rape among females in the rural and urban communities in 12 Nigerian states which cut across the six geopolitical zones of the country with a sample population of 3,023 (all females).

    The findings showed that rape is generally higher in rural areas than in the urban communities of Nigeria.

    The research also revealed that family members and neighbours are the principal perpetrators of rape while listing childhood sexual abuse experience, ethnicity, childhood family background (especially the broken homes) as critical risk factors of various forms of rape.

    The research findings, presented by each of the eight members of the team, established that there are incidents of childhood sexual abuse, rape among young females, women of reproductive age, elderly females and marital rape in rural and urban communities.

    The research findings showed the prevalence of sexual violence across different age groups, with childhood sexual abuse rates at 35 percent nationally, and slightly varying between urban and rural areas, and 10  per cent of currently married women and  11  per cent of never-married women reported experiences of rape, while vulnerable adult groups reported  15  percent prevalence.

    Members of the research team who were drawn from five departments of two faculties comprise Prof. Olufunsho Omobitan, Prof. Onipede Wusu, Prof. Folashade Airat, Dr Ibrahim Rotimi Aliu, Dr Adijat Olateju, Dr Alausa Waheed, Dr Busoye Olupooye, and Dr Sakiru Raji.