The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • World Bank approves additional funding for Nigeria’s education skills project

    World Bank approves additional funding for Nigeria’s education skills project

    The World Bank has approved additional financing for the implementation of the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPESSE) project in Nigeria.

    The bank rated the performance of SPESSE as satisfactory, hence the need for the additional funds to sustain its momentum.

    The SPESSE, which is being supported by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the World Bank, and the National Universities Commission (NUC), was designed to tackle a long-standing problem in both the public and private sectors: the shortage of skilled professionals and the absence of structured academic pathways in procurement, environmental safeguards, and social standards.

    Through coordinated training programmes anchored by six Centres of Excellence spread across the six geopolitical zones, the project has steadily bridged that gap, producing a new generation of professionals equipped to meet global best practices.

    The World Bank recently reinforced its confidence in the initiative during an Implementation Support Mission (ISM) held to assess progress, review ongoing activities under the original financing, and agree on next steps under the Additional Financing (AF).

    The mission was led by the World Bank Task Team Leader, Ishtiak Siddique, alongside the National Project Coordinator, Dr Joshua Atah of the NUC.

    According to the mission’s Aide Mémoire, SPESSE has recorded “significant progress” since the last review. 

    All four Project Development Objective (PDO) indicators have been fully achieved, while the overall Project Implementation Progress (IP) has been rated satisfactory following verification for the January 1–June 30, 2025 period.

    Independent verification also confirmed that 12 out of 18 Performance-Based Conditions (PBCs) have already been met or exceeded.

    Five additional PBCs are scheduled for completion by June 30, 2026, with remaining targets aligned with the project’s closing timeline.

    During the mission, the World Bank team engaged with key national and state-level stakeholders, including the SPESSE National Facilitation Implementation Unit (NFIU) at the NUC, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the Federal Ministry of Environment, and the Federal Ministry of Finance. The team also reviewed activities at the six Centres of Excellence hosted by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi; Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi; Federal University of Technology, Owerri; University of Benin; and the University of Lagos.

    Presentations from the centres highlighted milestones achieved, progress toward PDO targets, international accreditations, disbursement-linked indicators, and student exchange programmes. Tracer studies further underscored the far-reaching impact of SPESSE since its inception.

    One of the project’s most notable achievements is the launch of professional certification examinations in procurement, environmental safeguards, and social safeguards. Conducted through online portals between April and June 2025, the examinations have already produced 3,429 successful candidates. Of this number, 2,121 passed procurement certification, 855 qualified in social safeguards, and 453 in environmental safeguards.

    These certifications represent only a fraction of the project’s reach. 

    More than 85,000 participants have benefited from SPESSE training programmes across the six Centres of Excellence, cutting across Tracks A to E. Even the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in the early stages of implementation failed to slow the project’s steady progress.

    The strong performance has earned SPESSE a reputation as one of Nigeria’s standout development projects. An overall satisfactory rating at this stage of implementation is rare among donor-funded programmes, a fact confirmed by the Director of the International Economic Relations Department at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr Stanley Nyeso George.

    He, alongside other stakeholders, commended the NUC under both its current and former leadership, as well as Dr Atah, for driving the project’s success. Centre Leaders and their teams were also praised for their dedication and results.

    In recognition of these gains, the World Bank approved Additional Financing to extend the project’s lifespan until June 2026.

    The decision, the Bank said, reflects SPESSE’s improved outcomes and alignment with its development objectives.

    With renewed funding, the project is expected to deepen procurement reforms, expand online training platforms and strengthen institutional capacity, ensuring long-term benefits for Nigeria’s public sector, private businesses and local communities.

    Stakeholders insist the focus remains on translating training and certification gains into tangible improvements in transparency, efficiency and inclusiveness within Nigeria’s procurement system.

    In a move to institutionalise these standards, the Bureau of Public Procurement has initiated steps to make SPESSE courses mandatory for the professional certification of all procurement officers.

    Director-General of the BPP, Dr Adebowale Adedokun, disclosed this at a high-level review meeting with the World Bank during the 2025 SPESSE ISM in Abuja.

    Adedokun said the proposal, which has received preliminary approval from the Head of Service, will be incorporated into the revised circular governing the procurement cadre.

    He reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to implementing all project objectives, including the transition to e-procurement.

    The Bureau and the World Bank jointly reiterated their resolve to ensure the continued success of SPESSE, a project many now see as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s drive toward sustainable procurement and responsible governance.

    The bank rated the performance of SPESSE as satisfactory, hence the need for the additional funds to sustain its momentum.

    The SPESSE, which is being supported by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the World Bank, and the National Universities Commission (NUC), was designed to tackle a long-standing problem in both the public and private sectors: the shortage of skilled professionals and the absence of structured academic pathways in procurement, environmental safeguards, and social standards.

    Through coordinated training programmes anchored by six Centres of Excellence spread across the six geopolitical zones, the project has steadily bridged that gap, producing a new generation of professionals equipped to meet global best practices.

    The World Bank recently reinforced its confidence in the initiative during an Implementation Support Mission (ISM) held to assess progress, review ongoing activities under the original financing, and agree on next steps under the Additional Financing (AF).

    The mission was led by the World Bank Task Team Leader, Ishtiak Siddique, alongside the National Project Coordinator, Dr Joshua Atah of the NUC.

    According to the mission’s Aide Mémoire, SPESSE has recorded “significant progress” since the last review. 

    All four Project Development Objective (PDO) indicators have been fully achieved, while the overall Project Implementation Progress (IP) has been rated satisfactory following verification for the January 1–June 30, 2025 period.

    Independent verification also confirmed that 12 out of 18 Performance-Based Conditions (PBCs) have already been met or exceeded.

    Five additional PBCs are scheduled for completion by June 30, 2026, with remaining targets aligned with the project’s closing timeline.

    During the mission, the World Bank team engaged with key national and state-level stakeholders, including the SPESSE National Facilitation Implementation Unit (NFIU) at the NUC, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the Federal Ministry of Environment, and the Federal Ministry of Finance. The team also reviewed activities at the six Centres of Excellence hosted by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi; Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi; Federal University of Technology, Owerri; University of Benin; and the University of Lagos.

    Presentations from the centres highlighted milestones achieved, progress toward PDO targets, international accreditations, disbursement-linked indicators, and student exchange programmes. Tracer studies further underscored the far-reaching impact of SPESSE since its inception.

    One of the project’s most notable achievements is the launch of professional certification examinations in procurement, environmental safeguards, and social safeguards. Conducted through online portals between April and June 2025, the examinations have already produced 3,429 successful candidates. Of this number, 2,121 passed procurement certification, 855 qualified in social safeguards, and 453 in environmental safeguards.

    These certifications represent only a fraction of the project’s reach. 

    More than 85,000 participants have benefited from SPESSE training programmes across the six Centres of Excellence, cutting across Tracks A to E. Even the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in the early stages of implementation failed to slow the project’s steady progress.

    The strong performance has earned SPESSE a reputation as one of Nigeria’s standout development projects. An overall satisfactory rating at this stage of implementation is rare among donor-funded programmes, a fact confirmed by the Director of the International Economic Relations Department at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr Stanley Nyeso George.

    He, alongside other stakeholders, commended the NUC under both its current and former leadership, as well as Dr Atah, for driving the project’s success. Centre Leaders and their teams were also praised for their dedication and results.

    In recognition of these gains, the World Bank approved Additional Financing to extend the project’s lifespan until June 2026.

    The decision, the Bank said, reflects SPESSE’s improved outcomes and alignment with its development objectives.

    With renewed funding, the project is expected to deepen procurement reforms, expand online training platforms and strengthen institutional capacity, ensuring long-term benefits for Nigeria’s public sector, private businesses and local communities.

    Stakeholders insist the focus remains on translating training and certification gains into tangible improvements in transparency, efficiency and inclusiveness within Nigeria’s procurement system.

    In a move to institutionalise these standards, the Bureau of Public Procurement has initiated steps to make SPESSE courses mandatory for the professional certification of all procurement officers.

    Director-General of the BPP, Dr Adebowale Adedokun, disclosed this at a high-level review meeting with the World Bank during the 2025 SPESSE ISM in Abuja.

    Adedokun said the proposal, which has received preliminary approval from the Head of Service, will be incorporated into the revised circular governing the procurement cadre.

    He reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to implementing all project objectives, including the transition to e-procurement.

    The Bureau and the World Bank jointly reiterated their resolve to ensure the continued success of SPESSE, a project many now see as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s drive toward sustainable procurement and responsible governance.

  • How technology-driven fraud is eroding Nigeria’s education integrity

    How technology-driven fraud is eroding Nigeria’s education integrity

    As millions of students vie for limited university placements each year, Nigeria’s examination system is under siege. Technology-driven cheating—from digital identity manipulation to AI-assisted fraud—is eroding the fairness and credibility of exams, leaving honest candidates at a disadvantage. Beyond academic integrity, the surge in malpractice threatens public trust, devalues qualifications and exposes systemic weaknesses, underscoring the urgent need for reforms to safeguard the nation’s education and future workforce, reports FRANK IKPEFAN.

    Ibegbulem Alexander did not earn the moniker “chairman” by presiding over the affairs of any of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas. He rose to that title through a darker kind of influence—one forged in the murky underworld of examination fraud, where his notoriety for gaming the system carried the weight of real authority.

     In that world, “Chairman” was known for turning data manipulation into a craft. For him, helping candidates cheat in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations was more than a scheme; it was a routine operation. Official records later revealed that he altered his personal details 18 different times, registering multiple individuals for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) under various aliases. He had, in effect, built a reputation as a “professional examination taker.”

    His activities thrived within a system under immense pressure. Every year, more than 1.5 million candidates register for the UTME, all hoping to gain admission into one of the nation’s tertiary institutions. Yet fewer than one million eventually secure a place. The intense competition—particularly for highly sought-after seats in public universities—has driven some candidates to seek illegal shortcuts, creating room for fraud syndicates to flourish.

    And where there is a “chairman,” there is often a deputy. In this case, it was Ozoemena Chibuike, who earned his own notoriety by registering with multiple identities 14 times to sit the UTME on behalf of desperate candidates. Investigations by our reporter uncovered that such acts of data manipulation were not confined to men alone. Women were active participants as well. One such figure was Annie Jennifer, who, during the 2019 UTME registration, acquired the nickname “Super Falcon” for her alleged exploits in data tampering. She never played for Nigeria’s women’s national football team. Yet those who knew her swore she had the same sharp instincts and agility—except her skill was not in dribbling past defenders, but in outsmarting digital safeguards meant to secure the examination system. By the end of that year’s exercise, eight individuals had altogether contributed a staggering 382 different fingerprints to fraudulently assist candidates writing the UTME.

    The pattern resurfaced in the 2025 UTME, where the board’s system came under heavy assault once more, mirroring the breaches witnessed in 2019. According to JAMB, 2,765 candidates were detected engaging in finger blending—an advanced method of identity manipulation. Another 178 candidates were flagged for image morphing and blending.

    This surge in technology-enabled cheating has raised serious concerns about the credibility of public examinations in Nigeria. What once served as the country’s most reliable gateway to higher education is increasingly being tainted by sophisticated fraud. And with every new breach, public confidence in the integrity of the system risks further erosion.

    Fraudsters facing prosecution, says JAMB

    The Public Communication Advisor of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Dr. Fabian Benjamin, told our correspondent that most individuals implicated in attempts to compromise the board’s systems are currently facing prosecution. According to him, several suspects are being tried by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) for offences bordering on cybercrime. Dr. Benjamin said: “For the 2025 UTME, those identified are being prosecuted by the security agencies. Some of them are in detention with the Nigeria Police Cyber Security. Some of the people who attempted to breach our system in 2019 have also been prosecuted. Some were sentenced with an option of fine, and we used a few of the culprits as prosecuting witnesses.”

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    JAMB should deploy enhanced technological security, says cyber-security expert

    Field Support Engineer at TeraQuest Integrated Services Limited, Victor Osinachi, urged JAMB to adopt more advanced technologies to reduce digital fraud and impersonation. He advised the Board to consider AI-powered proctoring systems that combine CCTV, webcams and machine-learning algorithms to detect suspicious behaviour, unauthorised items, or sudden posture changes during examinations. “This is a crucial step to detect new tactics such as the use of hidden earpieces or remote desktop sharing. Deployment should be cautious, addressing concerns about flagging innocent behaviour,” Osinachi noted.

    He further recommended that JAMB transition from basic fingerprint scans to dual or multi-factor biometric verification incorporating advanced facial recognition and anomaly detection capable of identifying finger blending or AI-assisted image morphing. “This should be integrated at registration and continuously verified during the examination,” he added. Osinachi also emphasised the need for a highly secure browser lockdown system that restricts all external websites, files, applications, and keyboard shortcuts during UTME sessions. He urged enhanced encryption for question delivery and data storage to deter cyber-attacks.

    “Digital examination security is only as strong as the infrastructure behind it,” he said, calling on JAMB to establish a centralised centre for real-time monitoring and threat analysis across all Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres. According to him, such a command centre would enable swift intervention whenever security threats arise.

    JAMB panel recommends three-year ban for exam cheats, cancellation of 6,319 UTME results

    Alarmed by the scale of fraud detected in the 2025 UTME, JAMB constituted a Special Committee to investigate examination infractions. The committee—comprising experts drawn from academia, technology, security, civil society, and the legal sector—received six terms of reference, including analysing methods of malpractice, reviewing the cases of 6,458 suspected candidates, and proposing sanctions and preventive mechanisms. Chaired by the Founder of The Albino Foundation, Dr. Jake Epelle, the committee documented 4,251 cases of finger blending, 190 cases of AI-assisted image morphing, and 1,878 false declarations of albinism. Epelle identified other forms of cheating such as credential forgery, multiple National Identity Number (NIN) registrations, and organised solicitation schemes. He noted that the fraud extended beyond candidates, implicating some CBT centres, schools, parents, tutorial operators, and technical accomplices.

    At the end of its assignment, the panel recommended the cancellation of UTME results belonging to about 6,319 candidates involved in technology-driven malpractice. It also advised imposing bans of one to three years and prosecuting both candidates and their collaborators. The report was presented to the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, on September 8, at the board’s headquarters in Bwari, Abuja.

    Reading the report, Epelle said that the cheating techniques discovered were sophisticated and heavily technology-driven. He argued that Nigeria’s legal framework for addressing biometric and digital fraud is weak, further eroding confidence in public examinations. To strengthen integrity, Epelle outlined a multi-layered framework anchored on detection, deterrence, and prevention. The proposed system includes AI-powered biometric anomaly detection, dual verification processes, real-time monitoring, and the establishment of a National Examination Security Operations Centre.

    The committee also recommended digitising correction workflows, enhancing disability verification, strengthening mobile-first self-service platforms, and prohibiting bulk school-led registrations. It called for amendments to the JAMB Act and the Examination Malpractice Act to formally recognise biometric and digital fraud. Beyond enforcement, the committee proposed a nationwide “Integrity First” campaign to instill ethics and values in students. For candidates below 18, it recommended rehabilitative measures under the Child Rights Act, including counselling and supervised re-registration.

    Epelle concluded: “Registrar Sir, our conclusion is unambiguous: If left unchecked, examination malpractice will continue to erode merit, undermine public trust, and destroy the very foundation of Nigeria’s education and human capital development. But if we act with courage—through bold reforms, technological innovation, cultural reorientation, and uncompromising enforcement—we can turn this tide. Today, as we hand over this report, we affirm our collective commitment to defend the integrity of the Nigerian education system. This report is not just about exposing fraud; it is about charting a new course for transparency, fairness, and meritocracy in admissions.

    “On behalf of the committee, I thank you, Registrar, for the opportunity to serve our nation. May the recommendations contained herein contribute to strengthening JAMB, safeguarding our future, and building a Nigeria where merit, not malpractice, determines destiny.”

    Technology-driven infractions remain a growing threat, says Oloyede

    Receiving the committee’s report, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, confirmed that traditional forms of malpractice had declined significantly, with only 140 such cases recorded this year. However, he warned that new, technology-driven infractions pose a far more serious and rapidly escalating threat. According to him, JAMB is adopting a three-pronged approach consisting of strict sanctions, sustained investment in technology to safeguard examination integrity, and moral education to reduce the appetite for malpractice.

    He assured that the board would prioritise the implementation of the committee’s recommendations—particularly those within its mandate—while also consulting the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, on issues requiring policy support. Oloyede reiterated that examination malpractice has profound consequences for the country’s development.

    He said: “Examination malpractice is not a victimless crime. It devalues education, cheats hardworking candidates, and produces incompetent professionals—engineers who cannot build, doctors who endanger lives and graduates unfit to contribute to society.”

    The registrar further noted that nearly 80 per cent of malpractice cases originate from parents, warning that such complicity fosters dishonesty in children and entrenches the societal underdevelopment that the country continues to battle.

    Educationists: examination integrity in danger

    A Lagos-based educationist, Mrs. Dideolu Adekogbe, has warned that technology-driven cheating is rapidly compromising the fairness and credibility of public examinations, making it increasingly difficult to assess students’ true abilities. Adekogbe, who is the Lead Consultant at Florish-Gate Global Consult and Convener of the Bring Back Primary 6 Movement, said: “These activities of technology-driven cheating can compromise the integrity and validity of examinations, leading to unfair advantages and undermining the value of academic qualifications.”

    She explained that the growing pattern of digital malpractice threatens to erode public confidence in Nigeria’s examination system. If not urgently addressed, she warned, it could trigger several long-term consequences. Examinations and qualifications may increasingly be viewed as unreliable, damaging the reputation of institutions and the education system as a whole. She noted that some organisations have already blacklisted certificates from certain institutions on credibility grounds. Adekogbe added that such erosion of credibility would naturally lead to decreased trust, with parents, employers, and other stakeholders beginning to question the value of academic achievements, thereby weakening the standing of graduates. She further cautioned that Nigeria’s education system could become less competitive globally, limiting opportunities for students seeking further studies or employment abroad.

    Beyond these immediate impacts, she stressed that the broader economic repercussions could be profound, as a compromised education system threatens long-term national development, potentially deterring investment and undermining the country’s human capital base.  “It is crucial to address technology-driven cheating effectively to restore and maintain public trust in our exams and education system,” she added.

    National Mobilisation Officer of the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Adaramoye Lenin, echoed these concerns. He urged JAMB to strengthen its systems, upgrade its technological infrastructure, and seal all existing loopholes enabling examination fraud. Lenin stated: “The entire UTME infrastructure requires a comprehensive overhaul aimed at modernising JAMB’s technical and technological capacity to combat malpractice and ensure credibility. Anything short of this will only further erode public trust in our national examinations and weaken the foundation of our education system.”

  • Dansol High School gives back to Lagos community through ‘Food Drive Initiative’

    Dansol High School gives back to Lagos community through ‘Food Drive Initiative’

    Residents of the Agidingbi community in Lagos State benefitted from vital assistance as organisers of the annual “Food Drive” initiative distributed essential food items to households in need.

    The humanitarian outreach, held at the Dansol School premises, drew volunteers, residents and school officials.

    The Food Drive, now in its second year, is part of Dansol High School’s long-standing commitment to community service. Although the institution has carried out various Christmas charity outreaches for more than two decades, the decision to specifically support vulnerable families connected to the school began last year in response to rising economic hardship.

    Speaking at the event, Executive Director of Dansol High School, Mrs. Olanitori Omotara, said the initiative was designed to bring relief to households experiencing financial strain amidst soaring food prices.

    “For years, our learners gathered for fun activities during the Christmas season,” she said. “But as things became tougher for many families, we realised the need to shift our focus from celebration to compassion.”

    This year’s outreach supported slightly above 200 beneficiaries, including parents. Mrs. Omotara expressed gratitude to supporting organisations and parents whose contributions made the outreach possible.

    One highlight of the programme, she noted, was the involvement of students, who prayed with beneficiaries, offered words of encouragement and shared the message of Christmas.

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    “Watching our students minister, pray and show love to the community was deeply touching,” she added.

    Also speaking, Director of Schools, Mrs. Oladosu Tsola, described the outreach as an expression of Christian compassion and social responsibility.

    “Christmas is about giving—God gave us Jesus,” she said. “The best way to honour that gift is by supporting others, especially in a time of economic hardship.”

    She praised the students for their generosity and active participation.

    “Every year, the students exceed our expectations. Some donate money, others bring bags of rice, noodles and essential items. Their contributions are invaluable.”

    The distribution included rice, beans, garri, pasta, cooking oil and other necessities. Volunteers worked throughout the day to ensure a smooth and transparent process.

    One of the volunteers, Tunde Osho, said the experience was eye-opening.

    “Speaking with people makes you understand how real the struggles are. Helping them is fulfilling.”

    Many parents expressed gratitude for the support.

    “This programme came at the perfect time,” said Mrs. Kafayat Ogunlana, a mother of four. “Food prices keep rising, but our income hasn’t changed.”

    Organisers hope the initiative will continue to expand in the coming years.

    “This is just the beginning,” Mrs. Omotara said. “We hope to reach even more families and communities.”

    With today’s event concluded, many families left with not only food items, but also renewed hope and reassurance that compassion remains alive during difficult times.

  • How we are deepening Arabic Language, role in science, by institute

    How we are deepening Arabic Language, role in science, by institute

    The second edition of the annual public lecture organised by Ma’hdu Diraasaatil Qur’an Wal-Lugha (Institute of Qur’an and Language Studies) has further strengthened awareness of the importance of the Arabic language, with participants reporting growing public interest, improved student engagement and renewed commitment to Arabic learning among parents and students.

    The lecture, held in commemoration of 2025 World Arabic Day, aligned with global efforts to promote Arabic as one of the official languages of the United Nations, which is observed annually on December 18.

    Speaking on the impact of the programme over the last two years, Imam Ridwan Ibrahim, Mudir of Ma’hdu Diraasaatil Qur’an Wal-Lugha, said the initiative has played a significant role in raising public consciousness about Arabic language education.

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    According to him, many people were previously unaware that the United Nations had designated a day to recognise and promote the Arabic language. He noted that increasing public curiosity—particularly inquiries about when the lecture would hold this year—demonstrates sustained growth in awareness and public engagement.

    Imam Ibrahim explained that the impact of the lecture has gone beyond awareness, translating into noticeable improvement among students. He recalled that during the previous edition, students struggled to respond to Arabic questions, but observed that many of them confidently engaged in discussions and translations at this year’s lecture, describing the progress as encouraging.

    He also used the occasion to urge parents to take a more active role in their children’s Arabic education, stressing the need to strike a balance between Western education and Arabic learning. According to him, Arabic civilisation has made immense contributions to global knowledge, including foundational concepts such as the discovery of zero, without which modern mathematics would be incomplete.

    He called on parents to support their children by sponsoring their Arabic education, providing textbooks and learning materials, and offering consistent encouragement, noting that proficiency in both Arabic and Western education helps to produce well-rounded individuals.

    The keynote lecture was delivered by Director of Walking Quran, Ash-Sheikh Ismail Adebayo, who spoke extensively on the theme: “Arabic: The Language of Knowledge and Civilization,” with a focus on the topic: “The Contribution of Arabic to Science and Civilization.”

    He explained that the revelation of the Qur’an in Arabic not only enriched the language but also inspired scientific inquiry among early Muslim scholars. According to him, the Qur’an repeatedly draws attention to nature and creation, prompting Muslims to observe, investigate and develop knowledge across various fields.

  • Pistis Foundation awards scholarships to 214 students

    Pistis Foundation awards scholarships to 214 students

    The Pistis Foundation has once again reaffirmed its commitment to education and youth empowerment with the successful hosting of its annual Scholarship Award Ceremony, where 214 new scholars from Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Abia, Delta, Rivers, and Enugu states were formally awarded academic scholarships that will support them until graduation from tertiary institutions.

    The ceremony opened with a Partners’ Fireside Chat, bringing together education experts and philanthropists to discuss the theme: “Optimising Last-Mile Education – Driving Impact through Philanthropy.”

    In his opening remarks, Mr. Leonard F. Thomas, Executive Director of Pistis Foundation, set the tone for the day.

    The panel featured inspiring voices, including Mr. Bimbo Ojenike, Co-founder and Lead of The Destiny Trust Foundation; Mrs. Bolanle Adewole, Executive Director of The Learning Place; and Mrs. Molade Adeniyi, CEO of Teach for Nigeria. The session, moderated by Mrs. Sowari Akosionu, explored how philanthropy can strengthen educational outcomes in underserved communities.

    The event also marked the official launch of the PF Scholars Mentorship Programme, now embedded within the Foundation’s education platform, Adopt-A-PF-Scholar (www.aaps.pistis foundation.org), designed to provide ongoing guidance and support for beneficiaries.

    Following the fireside chat, the Scholarship Award Ceremony commenced with strong attendance from the Foundation’s Board, management, partners, parents, scholars, and guests.

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    The 214 new scholars had distinguished themselves through a rigorous scholarship assessment process, joining returning beneficiaries to bring the total number of academic scholars for the 2025/2026 academic year to 347.

    The scholarships, valued at a discounted sum of about N137 million, represent a significant investment in Nigeria’s future leaders.

    The ceremony also featured the annual recognition of outstanding scholars from the 2024/2025 academic session.

    Awards were presented to the Best in English and Mathematics, as well as the Most Improved Scholars across primary and secondary categories.

    The highlight was the Scholar of the Year Award, which came with a cash prize of N100,000. Parents and students shared heartfelt testimonies, underscoring the transformative impact of the program on their lives.

    In his closing address, Pastor Godman Akinlabi, Founder and Board Chair of Pistis Foundation, urged scholars and their parents to remain committed to academic excellence, character development, and maximizing the opportunities provided by the Foundation.

  • Coalition decries legislative interference in exam bodies affairs

    Coalition decries legislative interference in exam bodies affairs

    A coalition of civil society organisations has expressed concern over what it described as legislative interference by members of the National Assembly in the affairs of examination bodies.

    The organisations called for constructive, transparent and mutually respectful engagement between committees of the House of Representatives and Nigeria’s examination bodies, while stressing the need to preserve institutional independence within the education sector.

    Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Convener of the Social Transparency and Youth Leadership Advancement Initiative, Okpanachi Jacob, said the CSOs were offering general observations and recommendations aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and public confidence in educational institutions.

    Jacob condemned what he described as a growing trend of undue pressure on examination bodies under the guise of legislative oversight.

    He said such actions, if left unchecked, could undermine the integrity, independence and effectiveness of institutions responsible for conducting national examinations.

    While admitting that the National Assembly has the constitutional mandate to carry out oversight functions, Jacob said this responsibility must be exercised with transparency, restraint and respect for due process.

    He said: “Interactions between lawmakers and examination bodies such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, the West African Examinations Council, the National Examinations Council and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board should be guided by transparency, due process and mutual respect.”

    Jacob said the organisations believe that “maintaining clear institutional boundaries and professional standards is essential to sustaining the credibility of examination processes nationwide.”

    He clarified that the CSOs’ position was not based on any established wrongdoing or confirmed incidents, but rather on a broader commitment to promoting best practices in legislative oversight and public administration.

    The coalition also underscored the importance of “clear internal procedures within legislative committees, particularly on administrative and operational matters, as part of efforts to enhance efficiency and public trust.”

    In addition, the organisations encouraged “greater openness and clarity in governance processes, noting that transparency strengthens democratic institutions and fosters citizen confidence.”

    They further urged the leadership of the House of Representatives, under the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, to continue supporting ethical standards, internal cohesion and strict adherence to rules governing legislative operations.

    The coalition stressed that safeguarding the autonomy and credibility of Nigeria’s examination bodies is in the national interest and called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders in line with constitutional principles and democratic values.

  • US-based NGO honours Segun Kasali as 2025 outstanding journalist

    US-based NGO honours Segun Kasali as 2025 outstanding journalist

    A United States-based education-focused non-governmental organisation, Values for Affordable Education (VOA) Charity, has honoured a correspondent with the Nigerian Tribune Newspapers, Mr. Segun Kasali, with the Outstanding Journalist of the Year award.

    The recognition was announced at the organisation’s 3rd Anniversary Annual Fundraising Gala held at the Civic Centre, Lagos, on December 14, 2025.

    Founder of the charity, Dr. Olabisi Adekoya, said the award was in recognition of Kasali’s outstanding contributions to the promotion of educational values and his dedication to advancing the policies and objectives of the organisation.

    Kasali has authored numerous articles spanning politics, entertainment, health and social issues, earning him a reputation for impactful and socially conscious journalism.

    Recently, he also received the Ambassador of the Year award from the UK-based IA-Foundation, a non-profit organisation focused on transforming lives through education in Nigeria and across Africa, further underscoring his passion for addressing challenges such as out-of-school children.

    Describing his work, a member of the organisation said Kasali consistently delves into impactful topics, using his reporting to hold governments accountable and drive positive change.

    Another commendation noted that his influence extends beyond Nigeria, as he is regularly invited to high-profile events, including the inauguration of the Mayor of London, reflecting his growing stature in both national and international circles.

  • NOUN awards degrees to six inmates at Kuje Custodial Centre

    NOUN awards degrees to six inmates at Kuje Custodial Centre

    The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has conferred certificates on six inmates of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja.

    The graduands, who studied various programmes while in custody, received degrees in different disciplines, including two Master’s degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, as well as four Bachelor’s degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, Political Science, Criminology, and Security Studies.

    According to the Public Relations Officer of the Kuje Custodial Centre, Samson Duza, the ceremony highlighted NOUN’s commitment to accessible education and the Nigerian Correctional Service’s focus on inmate rehabilitation.

    The Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, who was represented by the Deputy Controller-General, Amos Kupan, commended the inmates for their resilience and determination.

    “Education transforms lives, builds capacity, and proves that incarceration is not a dead end but a pivot to growth and reintegration. We will continue to foster skills for re-entry and a better future,” he said.

    Also speaking, the Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Christopher Peter Jen, congratulated the graduands and urged them to be good ambassadors of the custodial centre.

    He advised them to use their certificates to improve their lives after discharge, stressing that they should not allow anyone to look down on them, and encouraged them to pursue further education.

    The Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Mrs Modupe Adesina, represented by the Director of the NOUN Special Study Centre, Mr Francis Enobore, appreciated the Nigerian Correctional Service for 13 years of partnership and development.

    Adesina described the programme as a pathway of hope, assuring that both institutions would continue to empower inmates to reintegrate into society with dignity.

    “NOUN’s open model empowers even the marginalised. These graduates have shown that learning heals, equips, and dignifies. We will expand such partnerships,” she said.

    Speaking on behalf of the graduands, Mr Abbas Kyari expressed gratitude to the Controller-General of Corrections, officers and men of the Kuje custodial centre, as well as the NOUN management, for the opportunity to acquire education while in custody.

    He said the learning experience restored his sense of purpose, adding, “I am grateful that our years here were not wasted. What we have achieved will be useful to us for the rest of our lives.”

  • Winners emerge from maiden edition of ‘Dare2Debate’ 2025 competition

    Winners emerge from maiden edition of ‘Dare2Debate’ 2025 competition

    CMS Grammar School, Bariga, over the weekend, emerged victorious at the maiden edition of ‘Dare2Debate’ 2025 inter-school competition organised by HACmedia.

    The school defeated two others — Bishop Howells Memorial Grammar School, Bariga and Aresther Divine School, Ajao Estate — to emerge as the winner with 77 points and a cash prize of N300,000.

    Bishop Howells Memorial Grammar School came second with 75 points and got a N200,000 cash prize, while Aresther Divine School, with 70 points, got N100,000.

    In the first round, Sanusi Emmanuel of CMS Grammar debated Ibehkwe Precious of Bishop Howells on “Homework has never been so relevant as it is.”

    Sanusi argued that homework is no longer relevant in today’s context, while Ibehkwe Precious countered that homework is still essential for students’ understanding, discipline, and long-term learning.

    The second round featured Adebayo Adejumoke of Bishop Howells debating Aresther School on “Is poverty a big crime in Nigeria?” Adebayo argued that poverty drives crime, citing lack of social amenities, peer pressure, and emotional hardship as factors.

    In the final round, Chukwudalu Okafor of CMS Grammar faced Kelvin Chukwuma of Bishop Howells on “What has Artificial Intelligence done to human creativity?” Chukwudalu argued that AI enhances creativity, while Kelvin warned that over-reliance on AI can reduce critical thinking.

    The Dare2Debate initiative is actively building the next generation of leaders and critical thinkers.

    Its core program, “Think, Speak, and Lead,” leverages debate among secondary school students to cultivate essential public speaking and intellectual skills.

    The lead organiser of Dare2Debate, Davies Ikpoyi, in his remarks, explained that the debate programme was aimed at sharpening critical thinking among secondary school students.

    He said, “We want to let Nigerians know that students can actually get better with conversations, with thinking, with public speaking, and with the way they address conversations and situations.

    “That’s why we’re here, because the essence of the debate is to train senior secondary school students — youth, majorly— on public speaking, critical thinking, and mind management. And all of these usually culminates to something bigger, which happens to be the debate event, where everybody comes together to debate for a just cause. And I mean a just cause; it is not a show of force.

    “Debates usually are battles with words, knowledge, and wit. So the essence of all of those training was because we wanted to do this, and that’s why we’re here.

    “The need for young people to have better communications without having the need to feel haunted, intimidated, or feeling that somebody is after their life.”

    Also, Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana in his special address, urged students to reflect on Nigeria’s economic decline and social issues.

    Falana argued that poverty results from failed leadership, not destiny, and encouraged youth to study, think critically, and question societal challenges.

    He further called for restrictions on social media access for individuals under the age of 16 in Nigeria, echoing growing global concerns over the impact of online platforms on young people.

    Falana said, “There is an ongoing debate around the world with respect to the use of telephones or access to social media by young people. Some countries are restricting it. Australia has just insisted that you cannot access social media if you are under 16.

    “And, once it is adopted by the United States or the UK, in particular, Nigeria, being a neo-colony, will also be bound to follow suit. But one way or the other, it certainly has to be regulated in the interest of our children.

    “Do you know what I mean by a neo-colonial country? A country that claims to be independent but is still very much coloured in all circumstances. Nigeria is the colour of the United Kingdom.”

    Speaking on the argument that poverty is fuelling criminal activities in Nigeria, Falana opposed it, saying many people were pushed into the act because of poverty and unemployment.

    He said, “First of all, Nigerians are not criminals. If you compare the crime rate here with the United States of America, or some other countries, or South Africa, you will know that Nigerians are not into serious crimes, but because poverty and unemployment have been allowed by the government to be the lot of our people, many people are pushed into criminality.

    “However, we have cases of underemployment in Nigeria. So it is not totally true, right, that there are no job opportunities, but we choose, for instance, many of our people who go abroad. Jobs they consider ‘infra dignitatem’ here, that is, below their standard, is what those are the jobs they jump at abroad.

    “For instance, graduates who are gainfully employed there are made to believe that once they travel abroad, the sky is the limit of opportunities for them. So they get there, and they are forced to embark on dirty jobs.”

    Sanusi Emmanuel, an SS3 student of CMS Grammar, commended the organisers and the event, saying, “I learned valuable lessons from the debates and from other participants.

    “It was an eye-opening experience, and I appreciate the organisers for creating this platform. Everything I gained here will stay with me,” he said.

  • Shun exam malpractices, others, Bingham VC tells 1,805 new students

    Shun exam malpractices, others, Bingham VC tells 1,805 new students

    The Vice-Chancellor, Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, Professor Haruna Ayuba, has asked the new intake to shun exam malpractices, assault, bullying, sexual harassment, drugs, cultism, and all forms of crimes and criminality.

    Ayuba gave the advice during the matriculation ceremony of the university on Monday.

    The university admitted 1,805 new students spread over 15 faculties, 63 departments, and 48 academic programmes.

    The vice – chancellor said, “I have the pleasure to welcome our newly admitted students to this matriculation ceremony today.  The matriculation ceremony is a significant event in the academic calendar of a university, and it holds immense importance for both the university and the students. 

    “For the University, this ceremony marks the formal admission of new students into the institution. It provides a platform for the university to promote its vision, mission, culture, values, and traditions.  The ceremony also helps to foster a sense of community among students and staff in ways that promote collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to academic excellence.

    “For the students, matriculation marks the beginning of a new chapter in your academic journey. It signifies your transition from secondary school to university life. It is during the matriculation ceremony that you affirm your commitment to pursuing higher education and take an oath to uphold and embrace the core values and principles of the university. Matriculation also serves as a stepping stone for the newly admitted students to prepare themselves for the academic rigors and expectations of university life.

    “By taking the oath today, you have formally joined a community of men and women who are seeking knowledge in the fear of Christ and desire to be change-agents in the marketplace.”

    The vice-chancellor said that the university has grown in leaps and bounds with 15 Faculties and 48 Undergraduate and 59 postgraduate programmes.