The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Efficient resource management key to qualitative education, says AAUA don, Akinfolarin

    Efficient resource management key to qualitative education, says AAUA don, Akinfolarin

    A professor of Educational Management, Prof. Comfort Akinfolarin, has emphasised the role of resource management in fostering qualitative and functional education.

    Akinfolarin made the submission while delivering the 31st Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, titled, “Resource Management: A Catalyst for Qualitative and Functional Education.”

    Bearing in mind the foundational importance of resources in all aspects of life, including homes and schools, the don said, “Functional and qualitative education makes a nation worthy of development; hence, the availability, utilization, and maintenance of resources are paramount.”

    She clamoured for collective efforts from individuals, philanthropists, parents, religious institutions, government, non-governmental organisations, and international agencies to sustain and grow Nigeria’s educational system.

    Akinfolarin proposed critical measures at improving the education sector of Nigeria, emphasising increased government funding, efficient resource utilisation, strict enforcement, parental responsibility, sustainable projects, curriculum updates and industry collaboration. 

    She said, “The contributions of individuals, philanthropists, parents, religious institutions, government and non-governmental organisations and international organisations towards the growth and sustenance of functional and qualitative education in Nigeria cannot be overemphasised. 

    “The school system as an organisation where teaching, learning and research are carried out using all forms of education (formal, informal and non-formal), needs to be equipped with appropriate resources in order to make learners develop foundational skills; promote social and emotional development; encourage creativity, awake students intellectual curiosity and build resilience.

    The don advocated firm enforcement of laws against vices such as hooliganism, cult activities, and armed robbery in academic settings. 

    She charged families to inculcate discipline, honesty, and a strong work ethic in children from an early age.

    Akinfolarin said, “The allocation budgeted and disbursed to education by the government should be greatly reviewed and increased. Specific purpose grants should be made available to higher institutions and monitored. To avoid wastage of available resources, proper utilization and management should begin with individuals, families and institutions.

    She opined that families should lay down strong cultured backgrounds for their children by imbibing discipline, honesty and encouraging dignity of labour in the children.

    Akinfolarin also advised government to avoid white elephant projects. 

    “Rather, it should  provide only qualitative educational materials and complete the good structures laid down before their assumption of office and avoid starting projects they could not accomplish. Curriculum updates should be continuous. Educational institutions and the government need to collaborate with industries,” she noted.

    The Professor of Educational Management Passionately lamented the alarming disparity in resources availability between public and private schools. 

    The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, noted that inaugural lectures are opportunities for professors to share their research findings and ideas for the benefit of society and to propose solutions to societal needs.

  • FSS Oyo hails NELFUND for boosting access to education

    FSS Oyo hails NELFUND for boosting access to education

    The Federal School of Survey (FSS) Oyo has commended the federal government’s NELFUND policy, describing it as a vital initiative that has helped bring education closer to underprivileged communities.

    The institution, whose 22nd set of graduands are the pioneer beneficiaries of the fund, noted that it has greatly benefitted from the educational policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the school’s 22nd convocation, Rector Surv. Dupe Olayinka-Dosumun called for increased and sustained funding from the federal government. 

    She emphasised the need for financial support from both the Presidency and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, particularly for ongoing projects that have yet to receive adequate funding.

    Surv. Olayinka-Dosumun expressed gratitude for timely government interventions and assured that the school will continue to play a strategic role in developing manpower for Nigeria’s surveying and mapping sector. She affirmed that management, staff, and students remain committed to ensuring that government investments are used judiciously.

    “This great citadel, which is the Beacon of Modern Surveying and Geoinformatics and other Allied courses in Nigeria and sub-Sahara Africa in her existence over a century has produces Professionals, Technologists, Technicians of high reputes in field of Surveying and Geoinformatics and other related programmes for the National Economy in a sustainable and conducive learning environment.

    “Please note that many of the Doyens in Surveying Profession and countless Surveyor General passed through this institution.

    “I am to inform this assembly that the School within the last four (4) years when we had the 21st Convocation Ceremony (December 2021) had witnessed lots of pragmatic developments as the School Management continue to work hard to elevate the status of Federal School of Surveying, Oyo to an enviable height.

    “Many challenges facing the country at the moment requires the expertise of Map Makers and Geomaticians deploring the use of modern Technology to solve, I therefore want to congratulate all our graduands because you have acquired the right knowledge as your inputs is highly needed in this trying times.”

  • ‘Japa Syndrome’: Ondo varsity gives automatic jobs to 32 outstanding graduates

    ‘Japa Syndrome’: Ondo varsity gives automatic jobs to 32 outstanding graduates

    The Ondo State-owned Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), has announced “automatic employment” for 32 outstanding graduates of the institution.

    The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing to unveil activities for the university’s 14th convocation ceremony. 

    Ige described the initiative as part of efforts to curb the growing brain drain in Nigeria’s academic sector.

    He explained that the beneficiaries – all first-class graduates – would be offered appointments as Graduate Fellows or Graduate Assistants, provided they are willing to return after completing their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme.

    “We have a policy on campus that first-class students are appointed as Graduate Fellows or Graduate Assistants. We normally give them employment if they are interested in coming back after their NYSC,” he said.

    According to him, the widespread “Japa syndrome” is now taking a toll on universities nationwide, as lecturers leave the country in search of better remuneration.

    “A PhD holder in Nigeria – as Lecturer II or Lecturer I – earns a maximum of about N250,000 monthly. But if that same person gets an opportunity abroad, they receive nothing less than N5 million,” he lamented. 

    The VC noted that the 5,799 graduating students have been equipped with essential academic and entrepreneurial skills needed to contribute meaningfully to national and global development.

    However, Prof. Ige decried the inadequate funding of AAUA, saying the constraint continues to fuel agitation among academic staff and worsen the exodus of university personnel.

    “Funding in AAUA is inadequate, and that is why the issue of strike by ASUU came up. What was coming in as subvention was grossly inadequate to meet the university’s needs,” he added.

    He emphasised that adequate funding is key to strengthening Nigerian universities and aligning them with global standards.

    The VC revealed the breakdown of the graduating students, revealing that 5,251 of the 5,799 are undergraduates, 526 are postgraduate students, and 22 will receive diploma certificates.

    “32 bagged First Class honours, 1,444 earned Second Class Upper Division, 3,177 obtained Second Class Lower Division, 582 made Third Class, and 16 will graduate with Pass.”

    As part of the convocation ceremony, Prof Ige said a convocation lecture titled “Strengthening the Academic Tradition in the Nigerian University System” would be delivered by Professor Idowu Olayinka, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan.

    Prof. Ige, whose five-year tenure as Vice-Chancellor ends in a few months, said his only regret was his inability to build new student hostels due to a lack of TETFund intervention.

    “My target was to build as many halls of residence for students using the TETFund template, but unfortunately, when I came in, TETFund had stopped intervention in our university,” he said.

    He, however, highlighted notable academic advancements during his administration, including the introduction of programmes in cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, and other digital – skills – driven disciplines.

  • DT4TVET: UNIUYO, Edinburgh varsity partner to train construction engineers

    DT4TVET: UNIUYO, Edinburgh varsity partner to train construction engineers

    The University of Uyo and the Edinburg Napier University with support from the British Council have boost digital skills in Nigeria’s construction subsector.

    This is aimed at actualising the National Strategy for the DT4TVET project, Dr. Dubem Isaac Ikediashi, the principal investigator of the initiative has said.

    Ikediashi disclosed that over 40 participants from various technical schools, monotechnics/polytechnics, and skill acquisition across the country will participate in the training.

    Ikediashi at the weekend said: “The training will be preceded by a crucial, high-level meeting for all stakeholders in the construction subsector.

    “The stakeholders meeting will bring together policymakers, professional bodies, industry leaders, educational institutions, and project partners to discuss strategies for enhancing the nationwide implementation of Digital Technologies in the technical vocational education and training of construction education in Nigeria.

    “The critical training is scheduled to hold within the second week of January 2026 and is expected to result in a cohesive national strategy, ensuring that the successes generated by the DT4TVET project translates into sustainable, long-term change. 

    “This diverse participation underscores the national significance and widespread interest in digitizing construction education

    “These are fallouts from a successful conclusion of a landmark three-day workshop on Digital Technologies for TVET (DT4TVET) held in Uyo from October 15th to 17th, 2025”.

    He revealed that the high level meeting marked a crucial milestone for a year-long collaborative project between Edinburgh Napier University and the University of Uyo, sponsored by the British Council. 

    “The workshop was aimed at equipping educators and trainers with essential skills in cutting-edge digital technologies, thereby impacting directly the quality and relevance of construction education across Nigeria,” he said.

  • Tinubu urges varsities to seek sustainable funding

    Tinubu urges varsities to seek sustainable funding

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has advised federal universities to find sustainable funding options to tackle pressing infrastructure challenges.

    Addressing the 37th convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), the President said his administration, within two years, had recorded bold and remarkable achievements across federal universities.

    President Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice Chancellor of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Eboyin State, Prof. Jesse Uneke, highlighted the reforms his administration had undertaken since its inception.

    These include the Energising Education Programme (EEP), which has delivered solar energy solutions to federal universities.

    “It may interest you that the EEP Phase 3 project in FUTO has been fully completed and commissioned, ensuring uninterrupted 24-hour electricity supply,” he said.

    The President announced key interventions his administration has taken,  including the release of N50 billion for unpaid allowances, N150 billion for a NEED Assessment Fund (in three N50 billion tranches in 2025), a Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund offering interest-free loans up to N10 million, and streamlined NELFund guidelines for transparency.

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    Acknowledging funding limitations, President Tinubu urged federal universities to leverage endowment funds and public-private partnerships (PPP) for the development of infrastructure, like hostels and staff quarters, referencing the government’s PPP project guidelines.

    He said: “Despite these interventions, the demands of our universities continue to grow, and it is evident that the government alone cannot meet them adequately.

    Therefore, the universities are encouraged to pursue sustainable funding options such as endowment funds, and public-private partnerships to tackle pressing infrastructure challenges, including hostel accommodation and staff quarters.

    “I urge FUTO to forge strategic collaborations with the private sector, addressing needs without imposing unnecessary pressure on students and parents,” he said.

    The President advised the university to deepen industry engagement, boost research, and apply innovations to communities.

    He said: “Technology must serve humanity, and FUTO must be the bridge between knowledge and national prosperity.”

    President Tinubu hailed the parents and guardians for investing in their children’s education and equipping them “with the requisite skills to become not only useful to themselves but also impactful contributors to Nigeria and the global community”.

    The President congratulated recipients of honorary degrees, urging them to be “ambassadors of this institution” and serve Nigeria with greater impact.

    FUTO’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nnenna Oti, highlighted her administration’s efforts to enhance staff welfare, including the promotion of 203 professors, 594 non-academic staff members, 1,690 senior non-teaching staff members, and 232 junior non-teaching staff members.

    Praising President Tinubu for his support, she stressed that FUTO students were among the first to benefit from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund).

    Also, the Pro-Chancellor, Senator Jack Tilley-Gyado, and the Chancellor of the 13th Governing Council, Alhaji Muhammadu Aliyu Mustafa, outlined the challenges facing the university, such as a lack of staff quarters, a deteriorating road network, and ongoing encroachment and annexation of FUTO land by land grabbers and speculators.

    Highlights of the ceremony included the conferment of honorary degrees on Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Mrs. Ngozi Ekeoma (D.MT Honoris Causa) alongside the award of postgraduate degrees to 542 candidates.

  • JAMB Registrar commissions award project, medical laboratory building at KadPoly

    JAMB Registrar commissions award project, medical laboratory building at KadPoly

    The Registrar and Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, has commissioned the NATAP 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 JAMB award project at Kaduna Polytechnic.

    The commissioned Medical Laboratory Building, constructed for the Shehu Kangiwa Medical Center, is designed to strengthen healthcare delivery within the Kaduna Polytechnic community and Kaduna State at large.

    Speaking during the pre-commissioning and press briefing, Professor Oloyede expressed appreciation for the warm reception from the Kaduna Polytechnic management and commended the institution’s commitment to growth and development.

    He noted that Kaduna Polytechnic earned multiple JAMB awards due to its compliance with the board’s criteria, including an open and inclusive admission system. 

    He emphasised that institutions are assessed on factors such as the number of candidates seeking admission, acceptance of applicants from all 36 states and the FCT, and commitment to national inclusiveness.

    Professor Oloyede urged Nigerian tertiary institutions to adopt inclusive admission practices to reduce tribalism and promote national cohesion. 

    He also highlighted international admissions, gender balance, and adherence to admission regulations as key criteria for the JAMB awards.

    He stressed that compliance with guidelines—especially those under the Central Admission Processing System—is crucial, adding that validation of award winners is carried out by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to ensure fairness.

    Other considerations include the number of foreign candidates admitted, improvements in gender balance, and overall adherence to JAMB’s regulatory framework.

    “Kaduna Polytechnic shouldn’t thank JAMB for what it gets from it because the institution earned the award based on merit stating that JAMB doesn’t award contracts but gives awards to the institutions that deserved it.

    Explaining that the efforts of Kaduna Polytechnic are magnanimous in promoting education beyond Africa. He also commended the relationship of the management of the institution for their humane and generous reception.

    Prof. Ishaq appreciated the kind words showered on him and the comments of the Chairman Governing Council on the Rector, and the management of the institution stating that the statements are yardstick for the good records of the staff of the institution.

    In his own speech, the Chairman Governing Council of Kaduna Polytechnic, Prof. Pinheiro OFR, SAN, said it is with pride to witness the commission of the projects. He commended the management of Kaduna Polytechnic as a working and hardworking team. 

    He commended the JAMB Registrar and Dr. Suleiman Umar, the Rector of Kaduna Polytechnic for sustainable development of education in Kaduna Polytechnic.

    The Chairman stated that in his effort to rhyme with the vision of Kaduna Polytechnic in promoting education he has pledged his sitting allowance to assist the indigent students in the institution, while also he commended the Rector for striving for the development of Kaduna Polytechnic.

    “I must, therefore, place on record my unreserved applause for the Management of Kaduna Polytechnic, led by our indefatigable Rector, Dr. Suleiman Umar, for their consistency, credibility, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Time and again, this Administration has utilized JAMB intervention funds with utmost prudence and purpose; constructing and renovating lecture theatres, laboratories, classrooms, and offices across our various campuses; equipping departments with modern teaching and learning tools; and now, delivering this world-class medical laboratory building that will serve both our immediate Polytechnic community and the larger society,” the Chairman read.

    Prof. Pinheiro said the Rector is consistent and prudent in his administration and said that the JAMB projects would serve the larger community and not only the staff and students of the institution. 

    He charged the Director of Shehu Kangiwa Medical Center and the staff responsible for maintaining the Medical Laboratory, and he appreciated the JAMB Board for the award and recognition.

    “Finally, let me reassure all our development partners; JAMB, TETFund, the Federal Ministry of Education, the Kaduna State Government, and our numerous friends in the private sector, that Kaduna Polytechnic will continue to justify the confidence reposed in us. We will continue to be good stewards of every resource entrusted to us, and we will continue to deploy them in ways that directly improve teaching, learning, research, and community service,” the Chairman Governing Council stated.

    In his address, Dr. Suleiman Umar, the Rector of Kaduna Polytechnic welcomed all the staff of the institution to the commissioning of the JAMB awards project.

    “The Shehu Mohammed Kangiwa Medical Centre has come a long way since its modest beginning in 1969 as a simple sickbay attending only to minor ailments of staff and students. From 1978 onwards, it transformed into a full-fledged healthcare facility, extending quality medical services not only to the Kaduna Polytechnic community but also to the general public,” the Rector explained.

    The Rector said it is a transparent project for the development of Kaduna Polytechnic which will enhance medical activities in healthcare.

    “On behalf of the Kaduna Polytechnic Community, I express our deepest appreciation to the leadership and entire family of JAMB for this honour and for consistently choosing Kaduna Polytechnic as a worthy partner in nation-building. Your sustained support has transformed lives and institutions, and we are immensely proud of this partnership.”

    “We pledge, once again, our total commitment to the prudent management of all resources entrusted to us and to sustain this mutually beneficial relationship with JAMB for the greater good of education and healthcare in Nigeria,” Dr. Suleiman Umar explained.

    The Rector also, commended the JAMB commission for choosing Kaduna Polytechnic for partnership in providing quality education for sustainable development in Nigeria.

    Dr. Grace Jamila Bila, the Deputy Rector Academic, appreciated the JAMB Registrar for gracing the occasion despite his own oed schedules to come to Kaduna Polytechnic to commission the JAMB projects. She said she must thank JAMB for the offer even though the institution earned it. 

    She expressed her deepest gratitude to the Chairman Governing Council of Kaduna Polytechnic, prof. Pinheiro for his commitment, resilience, dedicated and untiring effort in moving Kaduna Polytechnic forward. Dr. Grace also, saluted the commitment of the Rector of the institution for his foresight and determination in making the event successful, while she thanked the staff, students and the people that made the event successful.

    Parts of the JAMB projects include, State of the art Crime Investigation Office, supply of laptops and ICT accessories, comprehensive renovation of Block A and B of Department of Applied Science, Upgrade and standardization of Spider FM Radio, Laboratory Building of the Shehu Kangiwa Medical Center.

  • Education District 11 students shine at Lagos Spelling Bee contest

    Education District 11 students shine at Lagos Spelling Bee contest

    Students from schools under the Education District II has once again emerged as champions at the just-concluded 21st Annual Lagos State Spelling Bee Competition (Secondary School Category).

    The competition was organized by the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) in collaboration with the New Era Foundation, producing the One-Day Governor and Deputy Governor for yet another year.

    After a keenly contested final round, Etiyeyemonu Esther of Senior Model College, Igbokuta, Imota; Awoyemi Dorcas of Ikosi Senior Secondary School, Ikosi–Isheri; and Salami Jumai Olaide of Angus Memorial Senior High School, Somolu, all representing Education District II, emerged overall winner, first runner-up, and second runner-up.

    In her goodwill message, the First Lady of Nigeria and initiator of the One-Day Governor concept, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, congratulated the students for their remarkable performance.

    Represented by the Executive Secretary, Board of Trustees, New Era Foundation, Mrs. Grace Giwa, the First Lady praised the students’ courage, passion, and discipline.

    She expressed delight at the consistent positive reports and the enviable achievements of past winners of the competition, noting that the Spelling Bee continues to build exceptional leaders for the nation.

    “These positive feedbacks reaffirm my belief that investing in education is investing in the collective future of our young learners,” she said.

    “Education remains the most important tool for shaping a brighter future. It nurtures discipline, confidence, and a deep love for knowledge, qualities that guide learners throughout life.”

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    She also appreciated the parents and teachers for their guidance and applauded the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) for sustaining high standards in organizing the competition.

    Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, expressed pride in the students’ outstanding performance. “I say it confidently anywhere, our students are the best. The results speak for themselves,” he said.

    Referencing the recent educational trip to Singapore where eight Lagos public school students represented Nigeria due to their excellent achievements, the Commissioner emphasized that public school students in Lagos continue to set enviable standards.

    He encouraged the winners to strive for greater heights, urging them not to rest on their past achievements but to sustain and surpass their records of excellence.

    The Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, represented by the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District I, Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, described the competition as a celebration of intellectual curiosity, resilience, and mastery of the English language.

     He commended the students for their courage and determination: “Whether or not you go home with a trophy, you are symbols of excellence, courage, and commitment.”

     Agoro encouraged them to cherish the confidence and experience gained from the competition, emphasizing that the skills acquired would serve them positively throughout life.

    He also acknowledged teachers and parents for their invaluable support and mentorship.

    Welcoming guests to the event, the Director, Private Education and Special Programmes, OEQA, and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, said the competition represents much more than spelling words, as it has become a platform for nurturing resilience, precision, and confidence under pressure.

    “You are the intellectual elite of your generation. Your mastery, focus, and preparation are remarkable, and I pray you excel,” he encouraged the participants.

     He appreciated the sponsors, organizing committee, and OEQA team for their dedication to maintaining the high standards associated with the Lagos State Spelling Bee competition.

     Speaking shortly after being declared the overall winner, Etiyeyemonu Esther described her victory as a dream come true and a defining moment in her academic journey.

     She expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, her teachers, and her parents for their unwavering support, noting that the competition pushed her to discover confidence, discipline, and abilities she never knew she possessed.

     “Winning this competition means so much to me. It shows that hard work truly pays off, and I am grateful to everyone who believed in me and encouraged me throughout this journey,” she said.

    She pledged to use her position as a platform to inspire other students across Lagos State, especially young girls, to embrace excellence and believe in their potential.

  • Man O’ War rallies volunteers for stronger community safety, school protection nationwide

    Man O’ War rallies volunteers for stronger community safety, school protection nationwide

    Commander of Man O’ War Nigeria, NC Adedamola Gbenga, has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to deepening community safety efforts across the country, pledging sustained collaboration with the Federal Government to secure schools under the Safe School Initiative.

    Speaking at the 3rd National Commandants Conference in Abuja, convened to mark International Volunteers Day and launch the 2025 Man O’ War Week, Adedamola said the organisation’s work in youth leadership, emergency response, civic discipline and community safety continues to expand nationwide.

    He noted that Man O’ War personnel are already being deployed to schools in several states to support local security structures and strengthen community resilience.

    “Man O’ War is a strategic national partner in securing schools, empowering young people and strengthening community resilience. Every contribution matters, and we remain committed to supporting government efforts to keep Nigerian children safe,” he said.

    The Safe School Initiative, launched in 2014 after the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, is a government–UN–private sector partnership aimed at protecting schools in high-risk communities and boosting emergency response capacity.

    Representing the Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), Ms. Rinsola Abiola, the Director of Operations and Rescue, Dr. Alero Abokwara Adjekota, commended the organisation for its role in volunteer mobilisation and its expanding footprint in community safety programmes.

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    She said the partnership between CLTC and Man O’ War Nigeria is built on shared values of civic responsibility, adding that volunteer-led organisations remain essential to tackling national challenges in security, education and community development.

    “Societal progress is the cumulative result of intentional and consistent contributions. We must build a culture where citizens see themselves as part of the solution. Every act of service strengthens our national fabric,” she said.

    Delivering the keynote address, financial and investment expert and Man O’ War patron, Adebayo Lawal, called for stronger community-based security structures and urged schools to work closely with trained volunteer networks to enhance safety for students.

    He stressed that sustainable security architecture depends on synergy across government agencies, private sector partners, civil society groups and volunteer organisations.

    “Every child’s safety matters. National progress is achieved when citizens recognise their responsibility in securing their communities,” he stated.

    The conference drew national officers and state commanders, with several inductees recognised by the World Institute of Peace for notable contributions to volunteerism and community safety.

  • Fed govt gives 42,000 students N22,500 stipends under TVET initiative

    Fed govt gives 42,000 students N22,500 stipends under TVET initiative

    The federal government has commenced payment of N22,500.00 stipends to over 42,000 young Nigerians under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Initiative.

    Over 600 independent technical and vocational training centres also received payments for instructional and skills training they are providing to these students, ensuring the quality and continuity of the training programs.

    The government announced this in a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, on Thursday in Abuja.

    The government explained that the first tranche of payments marked the beginning of a sustained effort, with many more tranches expected to follow, confirming the program’s long-term financial commitment and sustainability.

    Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, said, “The rapid commencement of payments under the TVET Initiative is a clear execution of the President’s directive to invest aggressively in our young people.

    “President Tinubu believes that equipping our youth with in-demand, practical skills is the fastest way to drive job creation, entrepreneurship, and national economic growth. This is the very essence of the Renewed Hope Agenda, turning potential into productivity.”

    The statement added, “Since its commencement in May, the TVET initiative has rapidly moved from registration to practical training, with students having already begun their intensive vocational courses. The timely release of these funds is critical to sustaining this momentum.

    “TVET is another one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s Renewed Hope Agenda in action, demonstrating his belief that Nigerian youth are the heartbeat of the nation.”

  • 217 bags First Class as 6,454 graduate in OAU

    217 bags First Class as 6,454 graduate in OAU

    • …Akpabio to deliver 49th convocation lecture

    No fewer than 217 students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, bagged First Class Honours as 6,454 graduated from the institution at its 49th convocation ceremony.

    This is just as the Vice Chancellor, Professor Simeon Bamire, disclosed that the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, would deliver the 49th convocation lecture of the institution.

    Prof Bamire, during a convocation press conference, noted that Akpabio, who is a two-term governor of Akwa Ibom State, is renowned for scholarship and statesmanship.

    He disclosed that a total of 6,454 students graduating year’s convocation would be graduating in different classes, degrees, and certificates.

    He highlighted that, “out of the 5,084 first degree graduates, 217 bagged First Class Honours, while 2,077 bagged Second Class Upper Division, 2,173 bagged Third Class Honours, and 33 graduated with Pass.

    “A total of 1,074 would be graduating from the school of postgraduate studies, while 54 would be graduating with undergraduate diplomas.”

    He added, “The Convocation Lecture, which will be delivered by a distinguished national figure, a two-term Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, and the current President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, who is renowned for scholarship and statesmanship.

    “Also, the occasion will be marked by Academic Awards, Recognition of Distinguished individuals, including Honourable Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Other institutional activities. All activities will take place at the University’s Amphitheatre and Oduduwa Hall.”