The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • GOHO Foundation shares educational materials with 12 Nigerian schools

    GOHO Foundation shares educational materials with 12 Nigerian schools

    Driven by a commitment to alleviate educational challenges and raise academic standards in Nigeria, the Goke Oyedeji Humanitarian Outreach (GOHO) Foundation, in partnership with Christ Apostolic Church First in Americas, distributed educational materials valued at 5 million naira each to twelve selected schools across the country.

    The event, held on October 2nd and 3rd, 2024, took place at the Subomi Balogun Hall, University of Ibadan, Oyo State.

    Featuring lectures on education, training on the use of digital devices, and interactive sessions, the programme marked a significant achievement for the U.S.-based GOHO Foundation. 

    The schools received digital libraries, mobile electronics such as new-generation minicomputers known as “PI,” tablets, and gadget accessories, which will serve as teaching aids for educators and enhance learning in these schools.

    Speaking to reporters, Pastor (Dr.) Gbenga Famojuro, Executive Director of the GOHO Foundation, revealed the foundation’s plans to install solar panels in each beneficiary school to ensure uninterrupted use of the devices, despite power supply challenges.

    Pastor Famojuro, who also serves as the foundation’s Executive Director, shared that his passion for humanitarian work began during his seminary days. 

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    He explained that the nonprofit initiative aims to reduce suffering and improve the nation’s educational system, stating, “We strive to support students in any way we can, making their studies as efficient as possible.”

    Founded in memory of Goke Oyedeji, the founder of CAC First in America, who passed away in 2011, the GOHO Foundation operates through three key areas: food, education, and health.

    When asked if this charitable initiative would continue, Pastor Famojuro expressed the foundation’s desire to hold similar events annually.

  • Premiere Academy, Girls Learning Network partner on girl-child empowerment 

    Premiere Academy, Girls Learning Network partner on girl-child empowerment 

    Premiere Academy, Lugbe, Abuja has held a two-day multi-activity empowerment event for its female students to mark this year’s edition of the International Day of the Girl-Child.

    The event, with the theme: “Girls Vision for the Future” was jointly facilitated with Girls Learning Network, a leading Abuja-based non-governmental organisation with a focus on female empowerment advocacy. 

    It was held at the School’s Multi-purpose Hall and featured a keynote address, panel discussions, film shows as well as artistic presentations by students.

    They drove home the message of female empowerment and resilience as pivotal to nation-building and global peace.

    Premiere Academy’s Principal, Mr. Chris Akinsowon, noted that the celebration of this year’s International Day of the Girl-Child coincided with the annual Premiere Academy Girl-child Empowerment Series.

    The programme is part of the well-planned activities and initiatives the School’s Standing Committee on Girl-Child Protection and Grooming executes regularly to ensure female students of the school enjoy the best support possible at all times in the School.

    He observed that giving the students interactive platforms to voice their thoughts and aspirations, in addition to empowering them with opportunities for multi-dimensional growth, remained the bedrock of the School’s operational philosophy.

    Mr. Akinsonwon also pointed out that since the School’s establishment in 2005, the mission to produce all-rounded, well-adjusted, socially aware and responsible students who are expected to grow up to become the pride of the nation in different areas of endeavour, has remained the cornerstone of all activities and investments made. 

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    “We are deliberate at Premiere Academy in fostering the all-round development of our students, both male and female, but more especially the female given their special divine role as guardians of societal ethics and morals. 

    “By providing them with the support, knowledge and skills they need, we are shaping future societal pillars, leaders, innovators and change-makers. 

    “This unwavering commitment to holistic development ensures that our students are equipped with the tools to excel academically, thrive socially, and make a positive impact in the world. 

    “Going forward, we shall remain strong in ensuring that our students are always guided and shaped by high standards of ethical principles, discipline and pursuit of values that deepen self-worth and personal integrity,” he stated.

    The Principal also thanked parents, partners and other stakeholders, including the School Board, for their cooperation and support for all the school programmes designed to ensure impactful opportunities for the students to get exposure to holistic development and life-enhancing skills.

    Guest Speaker, Mrs. Eva Osode who is also a parent, tasked the students on the importance of cultivating bold, resilient and responsible characters that could help them live up to their expected future roles and contribute to the advancement of society.

    She praised the event organisers for their creative blend of education, entertainment and celebration in the event package, pointing out that such creativity would greatly enhance the impact of the global event on the lives of the students.

    The panel discussions facilitated by officials of Girls Learning Network centred around two topics: “Building Confidence: Empowering Girls to Own Their Voice and Vision” and “Navigating Peer Pressure and Social Expectations: Staying True to Yourself.”

    The highly interactive session at the event held Thursday and Friday last week sought to equip the students with strategies to face social challenges and to imbibe resilience in forming and maintaining bold characters and taking responsibility.

  • Makinde commissions GCIOBA 84 set projects at 40th reunion

    Makinde commissions GCIOBA 84 set projects at 40th reunion

    Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde has commissioned legacy projects by the 84 set of Government College Ibadan Old Boys Association (GCIOBA).

    The projects were parts of activities to mark the 40th reunion anniversary of the set. 

    They include renovation of the school buttery and development of adjoining quadrangle for students’ recreation, donation of equipment to the school’s library with various textbooks and purchase of 40 school uniforms for indigent students. 

    Others are purchase of 40 WAEC forms and 40 JAMB forms for students of the school

    The Governor, while commending GCIOBA 84th set for the projects, charged Alumni members to always contribute their quota to their alma mater.

    He said government alone cannot carry the burden of education, necessitating collaboration from individuals, corporate bodies and non- governmental organisation.

    Chairman of the 1984 set, Dr. Tunji Aladejebi, said the school has been more than just an institution of learning but a community and second home where lifelong friendship were forged and character was built.

    He stated that the 40th anniversary served as a reminder of strong network created overtime, adding the set shared history gives them uniques bond and collective strength to rely on.

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    He said the set has made a lot of interventions in the school to recover its lost glory such as renovation of the school coaster bus, provision of furniture to the biology and chemistry laboratories, donation of complete football kits to the school football team and rehabilitation of the school kitchen among others.

    He urged his colleagues to keep supporting one another, give back to their alma mater and uphold the values that were instilled in them while in school.

    Chairman of the 40th reunion anniversary, Goke Dokun, said the school has been a beacon of excellence, fostering growth, innovations and community.

    GCIOBA President, Wale Babalakin said the body has completely transformed the school in the last two years of signing of MoU of Management, Operation and Development with the State Government.

  • International Award trains teachers in FCT, Kogi, gives laptops

    International Award trains teachers in FCT, Kogi, gives laptops

    The International Award for Young People Nigeria has held a two-day New Award Leaders Training for adult leaders from 45 government schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The event, which was held at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, had 36 teachers in attendance.

    It was to equip them with the necessary skills to effectively implement the Award framework in their schools.

    On the second day of the training, an Award Centre licence presentation ceremony was held, which was attended by the school principals, the Director of the FCT Secondary Education Board, Hajiya Fatima Gambo and other officials from the Board.

    License agreement and certificate were presented to each school as a licensed Award Centre.

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    Each school was also provided with a laptop and an MTN Mi-Fi internet device to ensure that Award participants can record their Award activities online and their Award Leaders can effectively monitor their progress, like their counterparts from over 130 countries where the Award operates.

    A similar event was also held in Kogi State at GYB Model Science Secondary School, Adankolo, Lokoja for Award Leaders and Principals from 18 government schools with a total of 36 teachers trained as Award Leaders while the laptops and MTN Mi-Fi internet devices were presented to the principals of each school.

    National Director of the International Award for Young People Nigeria, Mr. Bello Oshoke, emphasised the critical role these tools will play.

    He highlighted that the laptops and MiFi devices are essential for helping Award Leaders guide students in recording their activities on the Online Record Book (ORB).

    Director of the FCT Secondary Education Board, Hajiya Fatima Gambo commended the organisation for its eight years of unwavering support for students.

    She urged the principals to ensure that the devices are exclusively utilised for the intended purpose of assisting students during the Award programme.

    The director, accompanied by Mr Itham from the FCT Secondary Education Board, presented the laptops and MiFi devices to the principals from FCT schools.

    The event concluded with the principals expressing their gratitude to the organization for the provision of these devices, assuring that they will be used strictly to assist students in participating and achieving the Award.

    The International Award for Young People Nigeria is known globally as The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (“The Award”).

    The Award is a global framework for non-formal education and learning, which challenges young people to dream big, celebrate their achievements and make a difference in their world.

    Through developing transferable skills, increasing their fitness levels, cultivating a sense of adventure and volunteering in their community, the Award helps young people find their purpose, passion and place in the world.

    Operating in over 130 countries and territories, the Award inspires millions of young people to take control and make their own choices.

    More than a million young people are participating in the Award worldwide through hundreds of thousands of youth-focused partners and operators, including schools, universities, youth organizations, examination boards, and youth offender institutions, all of which are attuned to the interests and challenges facing today’s youth.

    Since its reintroduction in Nigeria in 2014, the Award has made significant progress and is now operating in more than 14 states and the FCT.

    Over 65,000 young people from over 350 Award Centres have participated, guided and supported by over 1,200 trained adult mentors. Our goal is to make the Award available to over 200,000 young Nigerians by 2027, regardless of their background, circumstances, or challenges.

  • Adeyemo hails Adeleke’s committement to students welfare

    Adeyemo hails Adeleke’s committement to students welfare

    The newly elected Assistant General Secretary (AGS) National Association of Nigerians Students (NANS) Southwest (Zone D), Com. Adeyemo Kayode “BILLIONCODE” has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke, and other stakeholders for their unwavering support and commitment to student welfare and education in Osun State.

    He applauded Adeleke for what he called his visionary leadership which has significantly impacted the community, fostering growth, innovation, and excellence. 

    A statement by Adeyemo described Governor Adeleke’s dedication towards improving standard of education and student welfare as a transformative force within the region.

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    The statement also hailed Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi and other government officials, including: Hon. Olawale Oladipupo Akere (Chief Whip, Osun Assembly); Hon. Alabi Taofeek Ariyibi (SSA to the Governor on Internal Security and Local Areas); Leader Oyeyemi Olalekan; Hon. Alalade Felix Bukola; Hon. Rrt Ridwan Wele Ayo (SSA to the Governor on O’Signage, Hoarding, and Advertising Agency); Hon. Alhaji Muhammad (Chairman, Ifelodun L.G.A Education Board); Hon. Lucas Ikolaba (SA to the Governor and Deputy Youth Leader); Leader Araromi Olaoluwa (Don Purcheche) And the entire Progressive Family

    He reiterated the commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities in his capacity as ASG.

    He emphasised the importance of transparent communication between the executive council and students, facilitating meetings, and ensuring that students’ voices are adequately represented. 

    He vowed to foster an inclusive environment where every student feels empowered.

    According to him: “We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us and for the opportunity to serve. I pledge to work tirelessly to promote the interests of Nigerian students and to contribute to the growth and development of our nation.”

  • Teacher wins N10 million Grand Prize of MToY

    Teacher wins N10 million Grand Prize of MToY

    Esomnofu Ifechukwu of Crown Grace School, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, emerged the winner of the 10th edition of the coveted Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition at the Grand Finale held in Lagos on Friday, October 11, 2024.

    Ifechukwu, who was adjudged the 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year, received a cash prize of ten million naira. Additionally, he will be rewarded with an all-expense-paid capacity development training overseas and honoured with school infrastructure worth N30 million in his school.

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    Kehinde Olukayode from Molusi College, Oke-Sopen, Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, won first runner-up position and received a cash prize of three million naira, while Aniefiok Udoh from Community Secondary Commercial School, Uyo LGA, Akwa Ibom State was second runner-up and went home with two million naira cash prize. In addition, 34 other teachers who emerged as State Champions from their respective states received one million naira each.

    In his goodwill message, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, expressed profound gratitude to Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund for their steady path and commitment to the education sector through the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition.

  • NASU appeals to FG to pay withheld salaries

    NASU appeals to FG to pay withheld salaries

    The leadership of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has appealed to the Federal Government to pay the withheld salaries of its members.

    President of NASU, Dr Makolo Hassan made the appeal to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun during a two-day National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.

    The union urged the minister to pay 50 per cent of the withheld salaries as directed by President Tinubu.

    Hassan said the government was yet to resolve the issue of the four months unpaid salaries of NASU members in the universities and inter-university centres.

    The NASU president said: “This is in spite of the fact that we have been informed that President Bola Tinubu has directed that 50 per cent of the unpaid salary, that is the two months, be paid.

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    “We are reliably informed that the finance minister is the one sitting on the directive of Mr. President on the matter.

    “NASU will therefore, like to use this forum to appeal to him to ensure that the directive is implemented to avert further industrial crisis in our universities and inter-university centres.”

    Hassan called on the government to speedily address the various issues as contained in the different agreements and Memoranda of Understanding entered with the leadership of the union.

    He called on the government to enhance the living standards of the non-teaching staff by granting them the privilege of enjoying the newly approved 65 years retirement age and 40 years of service.

    He appealed to the government to constitute the boards of the research institutions to enhance their productivity.

    He also called on the President to ensure that the board of the teaching/specialist hospitals were constituted towards ensuring effectiveness in their performance.

    He said that the education sector faced significant challenges, particularly funding, infrastructure decay and staff welfare that have hindered the fulfillment of the institutions’ mandates.

    The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman called for support to build an education system with pride and a legacy for the future generations.

  • 35 bag First Class as 148 graduate from Dominion University

    35 bag First Class as 148 graduate from Dominion University

    Thirty-five out of 148 graduating students bagged first-class honours at Dominion University’s second graduation ceremony in Ibadan. 

    The university’s management has announced plans to offer employment opportunities to these top-performing graduates.

    Vice Chancellor Prof. Abel Olorunnisola, providing a breakdown of the graduation statistics, revealed that 71 students earned second-class upper division honors, 39 obtained second-class lower division, and three graduated with third-class honors.

    Prof. Olorunnisola also noted that 80 percent of the graduating class benefited from various scholarship programs aimed at assisting financially disadvantaged students. 

    He added that ten of the first-class graduates were recipients of these scholarships.

    Prof Olorunnisola added that in September 2024, the National Universities Commission approved the establishment of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences with effect from the 2024/2025 academic session, bring the faculties in the institution to three. 

    The new faculty, he said is made up of the department of Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science and Public Health, which he said has taken off.

    In a remark, the Chancellor, Dominion University, Ibadan, Bishop Taiwo Adelakun appealed to the Federal Government to consider a review of some of its policies, which according to him are limiting the growth of private universities in the country.

    He said policies on the Tertiary Education Fund (TETFUND), Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and age limit for admission seekers are limiting the capacities of the universities as well as the potential of brilliant young secondary school leavers.

    Bishop Adelakun who also doubles as the Presiding Bishop, Victory International Church, urged government to create a level playing ground for both the private and public universities in the country to operate.

    He said a situation whereby certain laws are made to favourr a part and affect another may not allow for even growth of the sector.

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    He sighted for instance, the access to grant through the Tertiary Education Fund (TETFUND) being enjoyed by public varsities but not accessible by their private counterpart as well as the student loan fund (NELFUND), which he said could be extended to students in the private schools too.

    He added that many public varsities may not be affected by the age limit placed on admission seekers due to the massive application they get from prospective candidates but that the same policy has adverse effect on majority of applicants to the private universities. 

    He urged the government to consider a review of the policies owing to the fact that both the private and public universities are training and developing manpower capacity for the development of the country, noting that most modern courses not readily available in most public varsities are abundant in the private universities. 

  • AISA restates commitment to quality education

    AISA restates commitment to quality education

    The American International School of Abuja (AISA) has restated its commitment to delivering quality education.

    The New MS/HS Principal, Joseph Strzempka said this in a statement to mark the 30th anniversary of the school.

    Strzempka said the school’s leadership and teachers remained deeply committed to nurturing the academic and personal growth of every student.

    He said: “The city has plenty to offer for shopping, dining, and culture, and the school has attended to every detail in our transition from Asia to Nigeria. AISA is a safe, caring school with high expectations and high levels of support for families, faculty, and staff from around the world.

    “AISA’s new faculty members are already contributing to the positive, inclusive atmosphere that defines the school.”

    Physical Education Teacher, Devin Konkler expressed joy in being part of the AISA family.

    “It’s a joyful and positive environment that makes you want to give back and do your best,” Konkler said.

    The statement added: “As AISA marks its 30th year, the school credits much of its success to its focus on recruiting world-class educators and its commitment to academic excellence. This year’s cohort of new teachers participated in extensive orientation sessions to ensure a smooth transition into both the school and the broader Abuja community. These sessions included tours to key cultural landmarks like the National Mosque and the Nike Art Gallery, offering the teachers a glimpse into Nigeria’s vibrant traditions.

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    “In addition to the enriching professional environment at AISA, new staff members have quickly acclimated to their new home in Abuja. From the warm welcome extended by Nigerian Immigration Service officers upon arrival, to the hospitality of the AISA community and even local market vendors, the teachers have found Abuja to be an inviting and enriching place to live and work. Many have even embraced local cuisine, with favorites like jollof rice and roasted croaker from The Junkyard Grills, and more traditional Nigerian dishes such as poundo and egusi soup.

    “With a strong commitment to academic excellence, a diverse and talented teaching staff, and a vibrant international community, AISA is poised for another successful year. As the school continues to inspire global citizens and lifelong learners, this 30th anniversary marks a significant chapter in its ongoing story of educational achievement.”

  • Ekiti teacher inspires change for autistic children

    Ekiti teacher inspires change for autistic children

    Oyeyemi Patricia Adako, a passionate teacher at the University Demonstration Secondary School in Ikere Ekiti, shines as a beacon of hope for children with autism.

    With a bachelor’s degree in French from Ekiti State University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the National Teachers Institute in Kaduna, Nigeria, Mrs. Adako has redirected her career towards a noble cause.

    Her unwavering commitment to the welfare of autistic children is fueled by her belief that every child deserves care, love, and a place in society.

    Her journey began at the grassroots level, teaching elementary and high school students in her hometown of Ikere Ekiti. It was here that Mrs. Adako became acutely aware of the daily struggles faced by autistic children. She witnessed their segregation and marginalization, even as their unique talents and potential shone through.

    Moved by their plight, she felt a compelling urge to advocate for these children, recognizing the pressing need for a shift in societal perceptions and innovative solutions to help them thrive.

    As her passion intensified, she pursued an advanced degree in education and sought to integrate technological advancements into her efforts. Seeing the potential of tech-driven solutions, she envisioned a future where artificial intelligence could enhance the learning experiences of autistic children, making education more inclusive and effective.

    “This strong dedication led me to the United Kingdom, where I enrolled at Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford to earn a Master of Arts in Education, focusing on using artificial intelligence to advocate for autistic children,” Mrs. Adako shared in a virtual interview with our correspondent.

    She continued, “My pursuit of this degree was about equipping myself with the knowledge and skills to enact meaningful change in Nigeria’s educational system.” With her practical experience and advanced training, she is now poised to design policies that will address the challenges faced by autistic children, ensuring they receive the care and opportunities they truly deserve.

    After dedicating her graduation from Anglia Ruskin University to God and her family’s unwavering support, she stated, “My achievement will not only make me a role model but also a catalyst for change in Nigeria. With my education and experience, I aim to contribute significantly to developing policies for inclusive education, especially for children with autism in Nigeria.”

    Mrs. Adako aspires to continue her advocacy, ensuring these children are recognized and uplifted in a world that often overlooks their remarkable potential.

    Empowered by her master’s degree in education and extensive research experience, Mrs. Adako is set to return to Nigeria as the Executive Director of Education for Autism Initiative. She aims to leverage this position to further her advocacy and research in autism education.