The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • FUOYE warns SSANU leaders against alleged blackmail of VC

    FUOYE warns SSANU leaders against alleged blackmail of VC

    The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has warned the national leadership of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) led by Comrade Muhammad Haruna Ibrahim, to desist from what it described as “political blackmail and malicious propaganda” against the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina.

    In a statement on Tuesday by Special Adviser on Media to the VC, Dr. Wole Balogun , the University condemned what it called SSANU’s “desperate and unrelenting smear campaign”, alleging it has resorted to spreading rumours the VC was involved in political manoeuvring ahead of the forthcoming Ekiti Governorship poll. 

    “Such claims are indeed laughable, unfortunate, and utterly false,” the statement reads. 

    “Professor Fasina is an academic and administrator of high repute, not a politician. His record of integrity and professionalism is unquestionable.” 

    The University described the accusations as “lies from the pit of hell”, alleging several members of SSANU’s leadership in FUOYE have been involved in acts of gross misconduct, violence and indiscipline on campus.

    The statement accused some  FUOYE SSANU leaders of attempting to disrupt a peaceful meeting of staff on October 14, 2025, convened by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Ndoma Egba (SAN). 

    Read Also: FUOYE VC denies ordering arrest of SSANU leaders

    The University alleged violent conduct of these individuals was witnessed by other union leaders, staff members and security operatives, who even recorded video evidence of their actions

    it said it was on the basis of this that security agencies, including the Nigeria Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps, invited the SSANU officials for questioning. 

    “However, reports indicate that even at the Office of the Commissioner of Police, the individuals displayed further unruly and disrespectful behaviour.

    “The same characters who now parade themselves as defenders of justice have a well-documented record of insubordination and violence,” the statement continued. 

    “If anyone should be investigated for plans to disrupt the peace or the forthcoming elections, it should be these local SSANU leaders, not Professor Fasina.”

    The University further reiterated Fasina’s record in public service remains unblemished, particularly in matters related to elections. 

    It cited his role as the INEC Returning Officer for the Imo State Governorship Election, it said was widely acknowledged as one of the most peaceful and transparent polls. 

    “Professor Fasina has always been a law-abiding, peace-loving academic. Since assuming office on 11 February 2021, several elections have been held in Ekiti State without any controversy involving him. The allegations being circulated are baseless, mischievous, and politically motivated,” the statement concluded.

    The University called on the national leadership of SSANU to caution its members and put an end to further acts of political blackmail or attempts to malign the reputation of Fasina and the institution. 

  • New education curriculum receives boosts as group unveils implementation tools 

    New education curriculum receives boosts as group unveils implementation tools 

    The newly revised Basic and Senior Secondary Education Curriculum in Nigeria has received a major boost as an education-focused non-governmental organization, BMI Finishing School, announced plans to unveil tools designed to facilitate the smooth implementation of the federal government’s education reforms.

    According to a statement signed on Saturday by Dr. Nnamdi Unachukwu on behalf of BMI, the initiative underscores the organization’s commitment to advancing basic education in the country.

    “As part of our ongoing commitment, we have developed a range of tools to support the implementation of the new curriculum for trade subjects and business studies (entrepreneurship),” Dr. Unachukwu stated.

    READ ALSO: NLC issues four-week ultimatum to FG over ASUU crisis

    Among the resources to be unveiled are NERDC-approved textbooks and workbooks for Primary 4–6 and JSS 1–3, digital lab solutions, training guides for instructors, a Learning Management System (LMS), and a digital skills connect platform for hands-on training in trade skills, among others.

    The unveiling event, scheduled for October 22, 2025, at the National Merit House in Maitama, Abuja, will also serve as a public sensitization forum on the significance of the revised curriculum and its role in enhancing educational development in Nigeria.

    Expected attendees include educators, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and private sector stakeholders, who will discuss the importance of trade subjects and digital technology in nurturing young minds for the future.

  • UNILAG Faculty of Arts marks 60th anniversary with lecture

    UNILAG Faculty of Arts marks 60th anniversary with lecture

    As part of activities lined up to commemorate Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos 60th anniversary, President of the League for Social Justice (LSJ), Dr LaBode Obanor, has been announced as the keynote speaker for its formal public lecture.

    The public lecture:  “From Knowledge to Justice: Reclaiming the Humanities in Africa’s Tech-Driven Future”, is scheduled for Thursday at the Faculty of Arts Conference Room, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos.

    The lecture will highlight the enduring relevance of the humanities in addressing Africa’s developmental challenges within a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

    Obanor is expected to explore how justice, civic ethics and youth empowerment can guide Africa’s digital transformation in a manner that safeguards human dignity and democratic accountability.

    READ ALSO: Alleged forgery: Anyanwu signed letter before Govs, Saraki, Aliyu, others – PDP

    A statement by the Chairman of the Organising Planning Committee, Francis Shonubi, described the keynote address as one of the highlights of the faculty’s week-long diamond jubilee celebration, with the theme:  “Humanities as the Tech Solution to Global Crisis in 21st Century Africa.”

    Ahead of the epochal event, Obanor said education was not merely about information; it was about transformation, adding that the humanities reminded people that progress without justice was regression.

  • Ondo poly to graduate 25,000 as Aiyedatiwa breaks 12-year convocation jinx

    Ondo poly to graduate 25,000 as Aiyedatiwa breaks 12-year convocation jinx

    Ondo State-owned Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO) will graduate about 25,000 students during its 12th to 23rd combined convocations scheduled for Saturday.

    Acting Rector, Mr. Olorunwa Adegun, made this known yesterday at a news briefing to herald the week-long convocation.

    He described the event as a “jinx-breaking convocation” after 12 years of inactivity.

    Adegun said the last convocation was held in 2013. He hailed the visitor to the polytechnic, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his decisive intervention that made the event possible.

    He described the long absence of convocations as unacceptable, noting that Aiyedatiwa’s administration had shown uncommon commitment to restoring the institution’s lost glory.

    “When I assumed office in October 2023, the polytechnic was in an intensive care unit – workers morale was at its lowest, salaries were unpaid for 14 months, and payments were made irregularly, sometimes as low as five per cent,” he said.

    The rector said the institution was enmeshed in industrial crises, legal disputes and loss of accreditation for several academic programmes.

    He added that the polytechnic’s business enterprises and staff school were non-functional, while it had lost its status as a JAMB UTME centre.

    READ ALSO: NLC issues four-week ultimatum to FG over ASUU crisis

    Adegun, however, said with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s support, the institution had witnessed a remarkable turnaround.

    He said the governor approved special intervention funds that reduced the backlog of 40 months of unpaid salaries to just three, and financed the re-accreditation of 68 programmes by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

    The rector added that the governor also released funds for the convocation, noting that without such support, the event would not have been possible due to financial constraints.

    He said the ‘’polytechnic has now regained stability in its academic calendar and industrial relations,’’ adding that 2024 was the first year in over a decade without any industrial crisis.

    Adegun disclosed that the institution’s business units – including its water factory, bakery and guesthouse – had been fully revitalised, while its staff school reopened last month.

    He said the polytechnic had also been designated as a hub for entrepreneurship development in the Southwest by Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), and as a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion centre -a project expected to commence before the convocation.

    Highlighting other achievements, he said a chief lecturer led Nigeria to a gold medal victory at the 2023/2024 Global ICT Competition in Shenzhen, China, while a lecturer and a student from the Faculty of Engineering won the Best Engineer Awards in Ondo State.

    Adegun hailed the cordial relationship between the polytechnic and its host community, Owo, and expressed appreciation to the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba (Dr.) Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, for his consistent support.

    He said following Governor Aiyedatiwa’s approval to upgrade Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to a university, the management had begun necessary administrative processes to complement the government’s efforts.

    The rector lauded the governing council, academic board, staff unions, and alumni for their cooperation, noting the alumni’s contributions – including solar-powered streetlights, a solar portal, and an ongoing alumni building project to be inaugurated during the convocation.

    He expressed deep gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his “sustained retrieval efforts,” saying the convocation would not only celebrate the graduating students but also symbolise the rebirth of the polytechnic.

  • UNILORIN secures N1.6billion NELFUND loan for 12,983 students

    UNILORIN secures N1.6billion NELFUND loan for 12,983 students

    University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has said it has secured N1.6 billion Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for 12,983 students in the 2024/2025 academic session.

    It added that the loan was across all disciplines, including medical students.

    Vice Chancellor Prof Wahab Egbewole told reporters yesterday in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, while heralding the 40th convocation of the university.

    Egbewole said: “This laudable programme of the Federal Government has guaranteed that no student will drop out as a result of funding.”

    He hailed the interventionist policies of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund), noting that “an intervention fund of N52.6 billion was allocated to the university by TETFUND for year 2025 and this covers 11 areas, including physical infrastructure/programme upgrade, academic staff training, ICT support, entrepreneurship, career services.

    “The university equally received N300 million for zonal interventions to execute projects.

    “Equally, a special high impact project (SHIP) was given to our university to upgrade facilities in the sum of N4 billion at the College of Health Sciences and another N750 million for the building of hostel at the college.”

    READ ALSO: NLC issues four-week ultimatum to FG over ASUU crisis

    The vice chancellor said 12,653 students would graduate during its 40th convocation, coinciding with the institution’s 50th anniversary.

    He added that the graduating class for “the 2024/2025 academic session includes 316 First Class graduates, 4,120 Second Class Upper, 5,939 Second Class Lower, 1,078 Third Class, and 11 Pass degrees.

    “The list also includes 175 MB;BS graduates, 94 Nursing graduates, 36 from Veterinary Medicine, 64 in Physiotherapy and 13 Diploma awardees.

    “In the postgraduate category, 1,520 students will receive higher degrees, comprising 182 Postgraduate Diplomas, 916 Master’s, 188 professional Master’s and 234 PhDs.”

  • Minister Alausa: our reforms impacting Education positively

    Minister Alausa: our reforms impacting Education positively

    Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has outlined a comprehensive set of reforms being implemented to overhaul the nation’s education system, expand access, and raise quality standards across all levels of learning.

    In a statement highlighting the ministry’s recent achievements, Alausa said the initiatives form part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to align Nigeria’s education sector with global standards and equip young citizens for a technology-driven economy.

    Alausa  noted that History has been restored as a compulsory subject in the basic education curriculum to promote national identity, unity, and civic responsibility.

    “As of today, History is fully back as a core subject in schools,” he said.

    On infrastructure, the minister stated that the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) is rehabilitating schools nationwide through the School-Based Management Committee Improvement Programme.

    The projects include constructing classrooms, drilling boreholes, providing toilets and desks, and fencing schools, particularly in rural areas.

    Alausa added that the government has increased annual admission capacity in tertiary institutions from 750,000 to one million students and is harmonising tuition policies through NELFUND to ensure fairness and accessibility.

    He highlighted the launch of the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) Roadmap as a key step in transforming the sector.

    The six-pillar plan focuses on technical and vocational education, school infrastructure, girls’ education, reintegration of out-of-school children, curriculum reform, and digital learning.

    READ ALSO: Alleged forgery: Anyanwu signed letter before Govs, Saraki, Aliyu, others – PDP

    Ongoing initiatives, he said, include a nationwide teacher development plan, a curriculum review to reduce subject overload while prioritising entrepreneurship and digital literacy, and a digital data system to track schools, teachers, and students.

    The minister also cited the expansion of the World Bank-supported Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, which provides conditional cash transfers, improves school facilities, and equips girls with life and digital skills to overcome social and economic barriers.

    Other key policies include the proposed 12-year uninterrupted basic education structure, plans to phase out the Junior WAEC examination to reduce dropout rates, and the upgrade of technical colleges nationwide.

    Under the new model, students will receive free tuition and stipends, with 80 per cent of training focused on practicals and 20 per cent on theory.

    Alausa added that the government has launched the National Education Data System, introduced a new basic education curriculum, intensified teacher training, and expanded the national school feeding programme.

    He said the school feeding scheme now employs digital registries linked to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to ensure transparency and accountability.

    The minister described the new student loan scheme as one of the administration’s most significant achievements.

    The initiative, managed by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), provides interest-free loans to students in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

    It was established under the Students Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act 2023 and amended in 2024 to make the process more inclusive and flexible.

    According to Alausa, the policy ensures that no qualified Nigerian student is denied higher education due to financial constraints, as the loans cover tuition and other academic expenses.

  • Ebonyi employs 1,936 teachers

    Ebonyi employs 1,936 teachers

    Ebonyi State Government said it has employed 1,936 new teachers for primary and secondary schools. 

    Special Assistant to Ebonyi Governor on New Media, Leo Oketa stated this in a statement on Monday. 

    He said the recruitment is part of Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration’s comprehensive strategy to enhance the quality of education and address the long-standing shortage of teaching staff in public schools.

    According to him, the employment comprises 1,000 teachers for senior secondary schools and 936 teachers under the Ebonyi State Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) to serve in primary and junior secondary schools.

    Oketa described the move as a major step towards implementing the Governor’s People’s Charter of Needs agenda, which prioritizes education and human capital development.

    Oketa quoted  Mrs. Lilian Nwankwo, Chairman of the Ebonyi State Secondary Education Board as stating that the newly recruited teachers have already been posted to their respective schools. 

    She added that monitoring and inspection exercises would soon commence to ensure effective service delivery and accountability.

    “Recruitment alone is not enough.We must ensure that these teachers are present, dedicated, and delivering quality education to our children,” Nwankwo said

    Oketa, who said the initiative underscores Governor Nwifuru’s commitment to repositioning the education system, described the move as a visionary step toward lasting educational reform.

    According to him, the decision will yield immediate and long-term benefits for the state.

    He listed the short-term goal to include
    smaller class Sizes,  reduction of over crowded classe, personalized attention to students employment boost, economic stimulation, and improved morale of teachers.

    Oketa  noted the long term goals of the move include: Human Capital Development, Sustainable Growth and investment attraction 

    He emphasised that Governor Nwifuru’s approach reflects a shift from quick fixes to structural and sustainable reforms.

    He noted that the Governor’s emphasis on “training and retraining of teachers” ensures the workforce remains globally competitive.

    “Governor Nwifuru’s action demonstrates focus, accountability, and a genuine concern for the future of Ebonyi youths. 

     “He is not just improving today’s classrooms; he is building the foundation for the state’s long-term prosperity,” Oketa noted.

  • English, maths compulsory for all O’level students, says FG

    English, maths compulsory for all O’level students, says FG

    The Federal Government has said that English language and mathematics remain compulsory for students sitting for their ordinary level examinations. 

    The government therefore urged students to continue to register for the subjects in their O’level examinations. 

    Federal Ministry of Education made the clarification in a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade on Sunday. 

    It reads: “The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that all students must continue to register and sit for English Language and Mathematics in their O-Level examinations. The new policy does not exempt any candidate from these core subjects but rather introduces a more inclusive and flexible approach to tertiary admission requirements.

    READ ALSO: US, UK, DRC-bound illicit drug consignments intercepted in frozen snails, electrical bulbs

    “The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, explained that the reform promotes fairness and inclusiveness in tertiary education by ensuring that capable students are not denied admission due to deficiencies in non-core subjects.

    “The streamlining of O-Level admission guidelines aims to modernize Nigeria’s education system and align it with global best practices. It allows institutions to admit candidates into specific programmes where credit passes in either English or Mathematics may not be compulsory, while still mandating that all students register and sit for both subjects.

    “This reform supports the Federal Government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development, broadening academic pathways and recognizing diverse strengths among learners.

    “English and Mathematics remain vital tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning. The adjustment affects only admission criteria, not the requirement to take these subjects.

    “The Ministry urges students, parents, and stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels for verified policy updates.”

  • Top 12 African countries with most Diaspora students

    Top 12 African countries with most Diaspora students

    For many young Africans, studying abroad is more than just earning a degree — it’s about opening doors to the world. From the lecture halls of London to the labs of Toronto and the campuses of Paris, thousands of African students are chasing dreams of better education, stability, and global opportunity.

    While the UK, US, and Canada remain popular, many African students are also branching out to new destinations that offer world-class education and a chance to build international careers.

    Here’s a look at the top 12 African countries sending the most students abroad — and the unique stories behind their migration trends.

    1. Nigeria

    When it comes to studying overseas, Nigeria leads the way — by a wide margin. Tens of thousands of Nigerians are currently enrolled in universities across the U.K., U.S., and Canada, making the country one of the world’s top sources of international students.

    Despite high tuition and visa costs, many Nigerians see foreign education as a ticket to stability, better opportunities, and global recognition. From tech entrepreneurs to medical professionals, Nigerian graduates are making their mark around the world.

    2. Morocco

    For Moroccans, studying in France is almost a tradition. With deep historical and linguistic ties, France has become the go-to destination for Moroccan students pursuing degrees in engineering, business, and law.

    Many students appreciate the balance between quality education and cultural familiarity, making the French system a natural fit for Morocco’s globally-minded youth.

     3. Egypt

    Egypt has one of Africa’s largest student populations abroad. Egyptian students frequently head to Europe, the Gulf, and North America, focusing on fields like medicine, engineering, and business administration.

    Armed with international degrees, many return home to take leadership roles in education, healthcare, and innovation — driving progress from Cairo to Alexandria.

     4. Cameroon

    In Cameroon, limited university slots and fierce academic competition have fueled a steady rise in international study. France and Canada remain the top choices, thanks to their French-speaking environments and accessible study pathways.

    For many Cameroonian families, sending a child abroad is seen as an investment in future success.

    5. Algeria

    With a shared language and intertwined history, Algeria has long sent thousands of students to France each year. However, in recent times, Canada has also become an attractive alternative for Algerians seeking a blend of French culture and North American opportunity.

     6. Ghana

    Ghana’s middle class is expanding, and so is its ambition. A growing number of young Ghanaians are heading to the U.K., U.S., and Canada for degrees in tech, finance, and the creative industries.

    Driven by a passion for excellence and a global mindset, Ghanaians abroad are helping put the country on the map as one of Africa’s most education-focused nations.

    7. Kenya

    Kenyan students are making waves across the U.S., Australia, and the U.K., with increasing numbers also exploring Canada and China.

    Many focus on STEM and innovation-driven fields, often returning home to launch startups, lead research projects, or contribute to Kenya’s growing tech ecosystem — from Nairobi’s Silicon Savannah to the global stage.

     8. Tunisia

    Proximity plays in Tunisia’s favor. Its closeness to Europe allows thousands of Tunisians to pursue degrees in France, Germany, and Italy, especially in engineering, design, and architecture.

    Tunisia’s new generation of graduates are blending European innovation with North African creativity, fueling progress across industries.

    9. Zimbabwe

    Despite facing tough economic realities, Zimbabwean students continue to excel abroad. Many head to South Africa, the U.K., and the U.S., supported by scholarships and strong diaspora networks.

    Their academic excellence and determination have earned Zimbabweans a reputation for resilience, discipline, and brilliance wherever they go.

    10. Sudan

    Rounding out the list is Sudan, where more students are heading to Egypt, Malaysia, and Gulf countries in search of stability and career growth. For many, studying abroad is not just about education — it’s a path to safety, dignity, and a better life.

    11. Ethiopia

    Ethiopia has seen a steady rise in students relocating abroad, particularly to China, India, and the United States.

    Driven by a passion for science and technology, Ethiopian students are building global reputations for excellence. Many return home to contribute to the nation’s growing innovation and education sectors.

    12. South Africa

    Although South Africa attracts students from across Africa, more South Africans are now heading abroad for advanced education. Popular destinations include the U.K., U.S., and Australia, where they pursue postgraduate programs in law, business, and technology.

    These students bring back world-class expertise that strengthens South Africa’s leadership on the continent.

  • Ijaw stakeholders applaud PAP boss for awarding 3,000 scholarships

    Ijaw stakeholders applaud PAP boss for awarding 3,000 scholarships

    Stakeholders under the auspices of the Ijaw Youths Network (IYN) have applauded the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, for empowering indigenes of the Niger Delta region with over 3000 scholarships.

    The stakeholders commended Otuaro’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration through his unflinching commitment to the peace and development of the Niger Delta.

    The IYN in a statement on Saturday by its National Coordinator Frank Ebikabo and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, said that Otuaro had not departed from his avowed commitment to bridging the human capital development gap in the region.

    The stakeholders further hailed the  PAP boss for the recent deployment of 161 beneficiaries from impacted communities for targeted programmes in universities in the United Kingdom.

    They urged Otuaro to remain focused and dedicated  to the cause of the region and to ignore all attempts by mischief makers to distract him.

    The group said the deliberate steps taken by Otuaro to spread educational opportunities in the communities of the Niger Delta remained one of the most effective ways of entrenching lasting peace and development in the region.

    The stakeholders said that the Niger Delta and the entire country would feel the positive impacts of Otuaro’s visionary input to education in years to come.

    The youth leaders also commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his strategic supervision of the Presidential Amnesty Office, and contributions to entrenched peace in the Niger Delta.

    The IYN called on youths of the Niger Delta to prioritize the interest of the region in making a political choice in 2027 and urged them to back Otuaro’s call to support President Tinubu in the forthcoming election.

    They recalled the efforts by Otuaro in previous scholarship deployments and vocational training, stressing that the president had been supportive of the PAP initiatives.

    The group said:  “We have noted with keen interest the recent deployment of a huge number of Niger Delta indigenes for scholarship programmes within and outside the country.

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    “The record we have shows that over 3000 young people are benefiting from these unprecedented efforts of the PAP under Otuaro’s leadership within the country and 161 in the UK universities for the 2025/2026 academic year.

    “We at the IYN commend the PAP boss for his laudable efforts. We know his antecedents, and we are not surprised that he has made this level of unprecedented impact within a short time.

    “We urge him to remain focused on the job and ignore detractors spreading falsehood about the programme and its leaders.

    “We also call on our colleagues in the Niger Delta to give the requisite support to Otuaro and the Tinubu administration, which has given priority to issues affecting our people.”