The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Toromade, others bag professor of practice at Omniversity Imperial College

    Toromade, others bag professor of practice at Omniversity Imperial College

    Omniversity Imperial College, Missouri, USA has conferred Doctor of Practice and Professor of Practice degrees, on some multi-talented,  highly resourceful, erudite and impact -making innovators .Appointment of the President, Chairman Board of Trustees of the Governing Council was also made by Prof. Tokunbo Akeredolu-Ale

    The event which was held at the De Rembrandt Hotel and Suites, Ikeja, Lagos, was tagged: ‘2025  African Education Roundtable and Qualifications Conferment’.

    It had as its thought-provoking theme: ‘Recognizing Competence: Practice -Based Qualifications, Accreditation of Prior Experimental Learning ( APEL ),Skill Recognition ( SR ) and ISO-Certified Credentials (ICC) as Tools for African & Economic Revamp’.

    The event doubled as a gathering of intellectuals and a call to action for educational reform, economic advancement and the recognition of Africa’s unique contribution to global development.

    Akeredolu -Ale, highlighted the vision of the university in creating platforms where knowledge, leadership and practical experience converge to inspire excellence.

    “That brings to the public sphere the importance and imperative of the new narrative of what true knowledge should entail, outside the four walls of the citadels of theoretical knowledge so that its practical demonstration and more so, the impact such makes on the human development index or the quality of life of the beneficiaries and eventually the Nigerian nation and the society at large.

    “Incidentally, these defined the core values and prime objectives of the Omniversity which includes to promote the recognition of competence and experiential learning. Others encapsulate the advancement of ISO-certified educational practices across Africa, fostering discussions on leadership, certification and of course, innovation in education. Not left out are that of creating opportunities for professional recognition through honorary awards and practice based titles, as was brilliantly done today. And the larger picture is to contribute to Africa’s economic and educational revamp through competence validation,” he stated.

    Read Also: Skitmaker Kasala named ambassador of Ondo College

    Akeredolu -Ale noted that all the awardees successfully went through a rigorous evaluation process as conducted by the Accreditation Committee that verified the educational quality and equivalency, through the required framework for quality evaluation and assessment assurance and they were able to defend their new qualifications with brilliant submissions and empirical evidence.

    In a similar vein, others who bagged Professor of Practice include, Dr  Anthony Abiola Allen in Forensic Criminology and Investigation, Dr Happiness Ndidi Obioha in Cybersecurity, Dr  Priscilla Ndu in Management Finance, and Ladi Akeredolu-Ale in Broadcast Journalism.

    Others include Celestine Achi, who bagged Doctor of Practice in AI-powered Public Relations; Samson Sokoya in Integrated Marketing Communications; Oginaike Adedayo in Security Administration and Management; Adedamola Olubode in Environmental Management and Water Innovation Jerome Obada in AI, Data Science, Enterprise Systems and Strategic IT Management and Daisy Ibalafa Jaja in Global Business Leadership and Decision Making.

  • Ondo council boss distributes 5,000 educational materials

    Ondo council boss distributes 5,000 educational materials

    Chairman of Akoko Northeast  Local Government Area of Ondo State,  Mohammad Olawale Mutiu, has distributed over 5,000 educational materials to secondary schools across the council area.

    Mutiu said the initiative was part of his administration’s commitment to supporting the education sector.

    Items distributed were bags, books, reuseable bottles and pen.

    Describing education as bedrock of development, Mutiu said investment in students would help them secure their future and contribute positively to the growth of the community and the state at large.

    He  said that plans were underway to renovate dilapidated classrooms in some of the schools and to provide additional facilities that would create a more conducive environment for learning.

    Read Also: LASU: Maths dept rewards outstanding students, others

    According to him, education remains the most powerful tool to fight poverty and insecurity, hence the need for all stakeholders to support government’s efforts in strengthening the sector.

    Schools that benefitted were the Agboriki Comprehensive High School, College Ikare Secondary School, and AUD Secondary School. Others included Osele Comprehensive High School, Comprehensive Secondary School Ikare, and Ise Akoko High School.

    Founder of Eduminds Africa, Miss Motunrayo Oyedele, said the gesture was geared towards making education more attractive to students while also assisting parents by reducing the financial burden of buying books for their children.

    Community leaders present at the distribution ceremony applauded the council chairman for his foresight and called on other public office holders to emulate the initiative.

  • 14 interesting facts that stand NOUN out of conventional varsities

    14 interesting facts that stand NOUN out of conventional varsities

    • Ayodeji Adebowale

    1. Nigeria’s Only Single-Mode Open and Distance Learning University: NOUN is the only university in Nigeria dedicated exclusively to Open and Distance Learning (ODL), allowing students to learn flexibly without attending regular on-campus lectures.

    2. No Academic Strike Ever: Thanks to its flexible and non-residential structure, NOUN has never gone on strike meaning classes, exams, and graduations continue smoothly even when other universities are shut down.

    3. Study Anytime, Anywhere: Students can study from anywhere in Nigeria or even abroad using NOUN’s online platforms, printed modules, and multimedia resources. It’s education that fits your lifestyle!

    4. 100% Digitally Driven: NOUN is one of Nigeria’s first fully digitized universities registration, course materials, assignments, and even examinations are conducted online through the NOUN e-Learning portal.

    5. No Hostel or Campus Accommodation: Unlike conventional universities, NOUN students don’t live on campus. This significantly reduces living costs and promotes independence and self-discipline.

    6. Self-Paced Learning: Students progress at their own pace meaning you can finish your program faster or slower, depending on your personal schedule and level of commitment.

    7. Over 100 Study Centres Nationwide: NOUN has study centres in every state of Nigeria, ensuring university education reaches even the most remote and underserved communities.

    8. Designed for Working Adults: It’s the ideal university for professionals, parents, and entrepreneurs who wish to further their education without leaving their jobs, businesses, or families.

    9. First in Africa to Join the OER Movement: NOUN is among the first African universities to adopt Open Educational Resources (OER) providing free and accessible learning materials for students and the general public.

    10. Flexible Admission and Learning Structure: Admission into NOUN is open all year round. You can apply at any time and begin studies at your convenience no strict academic calendar or UTME restriction.

    Read Also: Niger raises teachers’ retirement age to 65, announces N20,000 wage award

    11. Multimedia Learning Experience: NOUN offers a diverse learning mix from radio and television broadcasts to online lectures and printed study guides catering to different learning styles and preferences.

    12. Produces Leaders from All Walks of Life: From military officers and civil servants to clergy, artists, and entrepreneurs, NOUN graduates are shining examples of how education can fit around one’s career and lifestyle.

    13. Easy and Transparent Payment System: All payments including admission, registration, and course fees are made safely online through the NOUN Remita payment platform, ensuring accountability and convenience. Students can pay in instalments and confirm payments immediately on the university portal.

    14. Instant Admission Status Confirmation: After applying online, candidates can check their admission status instantly via the NOUN portal. Once admitted, they can immediately proceed with fee payment and course registration without waiting for lengthy admission lists

  • 600 candidates get NDDC local postgraduate scholarships

    600 candidates get NDDC local postgraduate scholarships

    The Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC) has presented award letters to 600 successful candidates for its 2025/2026 Local Post Graduate Scholarship Programme

    Presenting the scholarship letters to the successful candidates during the award ceremony in Port Harcourt, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said that the scholarship programme was an initiative designed to enhance human capital development in the Niger Delta region.

    Ogbuku, who was supported by the Executive Director of Corporate Services, Ifedayo Abegunde; the Representative of Bayelsa State on the NDDC Board, Senator Dimaro Denyanbofa and other directors of the commission, urged the awardees to be good ambassadors of the Niger Delta region.

    Ogbuku in a statement by the commission’s Corporate Affairs Director, Seledi Thompson-Wakama described the scholarship scheme as an essential component of the NDDC’s human capital development programme.

    He noted that education was the most powerful weapon for changing the fortunes of the Niger Delta region.

    He observed that previous beneficiaries of the scholarship programme set enviable standards for subsequent groups.

    He said:  “It is remarkable that 32 of our scholars graduated with distinction in Coventry University this year.”

    Ogbuku advised the NDDC scholars to avoid distractions to excel in their studies, reminding them that they owed the Niger Delta a duty to succeed.

    He said:  “You are the torchbearers of transformation. Your education is not just for you but for the millions who look up to you for hope. As you pursue your postgraduate studies, remember that every lecture you attend, every paper you write, and every solution you provide is a step towards transforming our communities.”

    Read Also: NDDC inaugurates youth corps members’ lodge in Bayelsa

    In his remarks, the NDDC Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr George Uzowanne, disclosed that out of 46,240 applicants, only 600 were selected through a transparent electronic examination process.

    He said:  “I congratulate the successful candidates who applied and went through a seamless selection process.”

    Uzonwanne, said that the process of selecting the candidates was transparent, noting that competition for the Scholarship programme was intense and fair.

    He said: “Through initiatives like the NDDC Local Scholarship Programme, we are investing in the minds that will shape the Niger Delta’s tomorrow. By equipping our youth with advanced knowledge in fields like engineering, environmental sciences, technology, humanities and management sciences, we empower them to tackle our region’s unique challenges.”

    The NDDC Director of Education, Dr Angela Chukwudifu, observed that the new scholarship programme emphasised on local education to ensure that beneficiaries remained connected to the Niger Delta’s challenges and opportunities, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

    She said:  “Through initiatives like the NDDC Local Scholarship Programme, we are investing in the minds that will shape the Niger Delta’s tomorrow.

    “By equipping our youth with advanced knowledge in fields like engineering, environmental sciences, technology, humanities and management sciences, we empower them to tackle our region’s unique challenges.”

    The best performing scholarship candidate, Mr. Reginald Omubo-Pepple,commended the commission for giving them the opportunity to enhance their education.

    He pledged that the beneficiaries would do their best to be good ambassadors for the region and subsequently contribute to the development of the Niger Delta. 

  • WAEC assures smooth conduct of 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE

    WAEC assures smooth conduct of 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE

    The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has assured students, parents, and schools that the 2026 Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) will be conducted smoothly and efficiently.

    Speaking during a sensitisation campaign in Lagos on Wednesday, the Head of the WAEC National Office, Dr. Amos Dangut, said every candidate who registers for the CB-WASSCE 2026 will be able to write the examination seamlessly, whether in Nigeria or abroad.

    The awareness campaign was held across several locations in Lagos, including Yaba, Ojo, Ikeja, Ikorodu, Maryland, and Surulere.

    Dr. Dangut explained that the sensitisation exercise was designed to prepare candidates and schools for the new system and to give them an opportunity to practise ahead of the examination.

    READ ALSO; Why I stepped aside, by Nnaji

    He added that WAEC remains committed to ensuring timely, credible, and transparent examinations, noting that the introduction of the computer-based mode will help curb examination malpractice and enhance overall integrity.

    “Some people are still doubting, some people are still wondering whether this CB-WASSCE is a reality or not. Even though we have started, we have done five examinations.

     Every candidate that registers for CB-WASSCE 2026 will write his exam. Whether he is offshore or he is onshore, whether he is in the UK or anywhere, as long as you register for our exam, you will write this exam. And CB-WASSCE is the way to go. It’s the future of exams. And we are here today,” he said. 

    According to him, the full deployment of the Computer-Based Examination will not only reduce fraud and malpractice, but prevent any form of logistical challenge.

    “We have done it. Records are there. All the five examinations were conducted using computer-based examinations. There is a low rate of examination malpractice and there is higher performance of candidates. So what are we to be afraid about? So let us take the message to our stakeholders,” he added.

    Dangut also dispelled rumours that the examination body had removed some subjects on its Continuous Assessment (CASS) Portal.

    He noted that WAEC does not act arbitrarily, adding that various stakeholders mandated the council to do away with some trade subjects.

    “For example, auto merchandising. If you leave it in the CASS portal, of what use is it going to be? Because those trade subjects that the government has removed have ceased to be. So if you leave them in the CASS portal and they put scores, what is it going to serve? No effect at all. 

    He added the names of some of the subjects have been modified, but the content remains the same. 

    “WAEC is responsible, law-abiding and prompt to take action. We are ready to place Nigeria among the comity of people that are promptly utilising technology, in this case computer technology for education and an advanced assessment,” he added.

  • Firm celebrates unsung heroes on World Teachers’ Day

    Firm celebrates unsung heroes on World Teachers’ Day

    As the world celebrated World Teachers’ Day, Page Financials, one of Nigeria’s leading consumer finance institutions, honoured two exceptional public school teachers whose dedication continues to shape young minds and inspire their communities.

    Through a social media campaign, the company invited Nigerians to nominate teachers who truly deserved recognition. From the numerous heartfelt entries received, two teachers stood out for their remarkable commitment to education and service.

    The first visit took place at Ago Iwoye Methodist Primary School, Ebute Meta, where Mrs. Ipinlola Olaiya — a teacher with over three decades of experience since 1991 — was presented with a ₦100,000 cash reward. Overcome with emotion, she revealed that she had been “trusting God for financial support,” describing the gesture as timely and deeply meaningful.

    The team later visited Anglican Comprehensive High School, Ipaja, to surprise Mr. Fashina, a Creative Arts teacher who has devoted more than 24 years to nurturing creativity and confidence in students. On receiving his ₦100,000 reward, he exclaimed “Jesus!” in gratitude, explaining that his mobility challenge had been a pressing concern.

    The school’s Principal, Venerable Adeniji, thanked Page Financials for the thoughtful initiative, noting that “Mr. Fashina has won the Best Teacher of the Year award more than twice in the school. His consistency and passion for teaching are truly admirable.”

    Speaking on the initiative, Ola Moses, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Page Financials, said the gesture reflects the company’s mission to empower everyday heroes and inspire hope through acts of recognition and support.

    “Teachers are the quiet architects of our nation’s future. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed, but their impact lasts for generations. At Page, we believe in empowering those who empower others, and teachers embody that spirit every day,” he said.

    Since its inception in 2014, Page Financials has remained committed to empowering Nigerians through innovative loan offerings, investment options, and payment solutions designed to make financial life easier. Beyond financial services, the company continues to support social impact causes that promote excellence, service, and community growth.

    This World Teachers’ Day, Page Financials reminds us that behind every success story is a teacher who believed, and a company that chooses to celebrate them.

  • Fed govt appeals to ASUU to shelve planned strike

    Fed govt appeals to ASUU to shelve planned strike

    …says demands being addressed

    The federal government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to shelve its planned strike which is expected to start next week. 

    The government said there was no need for the union to embark on strike as it was committed to addressing all outstanding demands raised by the union.

    The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa made the appeal in Abuja on Wednesday while briefing journalists on the progress of ongoing negotiations between the Federal Government and university-based unions.

    ASUU has threatened to go on strike at the end of its 14-day ultimatum which it issued on September 28.

    The ultimatum will end on Oct 12. 

    Alausa highlighted several steps already taken by the government to demonstrate commitment, including the release of N50 billion for earned academic allowances and the provision of N150 billion in the 2025 budget for the revitalisation of tertiary institutions.

    READ ALSO; Why I stepped aside, by Nnaji

    He said, “The President has kept his promises. We have addressed promotional arrears, and the issues of wage awards and allowances have been resolved. By next year, all arrears will be fully cleared, including the 2025 wage award. The government is sincere and committed.”

    Alausa said that the Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Federal Government Tertiary Institutions Expanded Negotiation Committee had been reconstituted and inaugurated to fast-track talks with both academic and non-academic unions in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

    He stated, “We are finalising the components of the condition of service that ASUU has proposed. Our counterpart committee is also working to conclude its response, and hopefully, by the end of today or tomorrow, the Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Committee will present the Federal Government’s counter-offer to ASUU.”

    He explained that President Bola Tinubu had given clear directives that all efforts must be made to avoid another disruption in the nation’s tertiary institutions.

    Alausa said, “The President has mandated us to do everything humanly possible to avoid a strike. People at the highest level of government have been working several hours behind the scenes to come up with a robust but affordable response to the unions’ demands. These issues have dragged on for over 10 to 15 years, but this administration is determined to resolve them once and for all.”

    The minister stated that, unlike in the past where separate committees handled negotiations for universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, the government had now adopted a unified approach to ensure efficiency and coherence in the process.

    The minister added, “In the past, we had three different committees working, one for universities, one for polytechnics, and one for colleges of education. But that was not an efficient way to negotiate. 

    “Now, we have one expanded negotiating committee that engages all tertiary institutions and all unions, both academic and non-academic, to ensure a holistic understanding of their needs.”

    According to Alausa, about 80 per cent of the unions’ requests are similar across the tertiary subsectors, while the remaining 20 per cent relate to peculiar career and institutional needs.

    “We have seen all the requests, and we understand their peculiarities. The new committee has started work already and will continue to engage the unions expeditiously to reach a mutually beneficial agreement,” he said.

    The minister also urged ASUU and other unions to embrace dialogue as a first option rather than resorting to industrial action.

    He said, “We know you have been patient, but please don’t use strike as your first resort. These are issues that have lingered for decades. President Tinubu has shown genuine political will and benevolence towards education. We will resolve this matter comprehensively, respectfully, and in a way the government can afford.”

    He assured that discussions on the new conditions of service would soon be concluded, noting that this was the final component of the ongoing negotiation process.

    The minister said, “We have resolved most of the concerns raised by the unions, and we are now at the final stage of the conditions of service. 

    “We are pleading for patience. The government is truthful and genuinely interested in resolving this crisis once and for all.”

    ASUU has already begun full mobilisation of its members in preparation for a possible nationwide warning strike ahead of its 14-day ultimatum, which is set to expire on Sunday this week.

  • Niger raises teachers’ retirement age to 65, announces N20,000 wage award

    Niger raises teachers’ retirement age to 65, announces N20,000 wage award

    The Niger State Government has approved a new retirement age of 65 years for teachers across the state, effective from January 1, 2026.

    Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago made the announcement during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration organized by the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Minna.

    He also disclosed that the retirement age for professors has been raised to 70 years, explaining that the decision aims to ensure that teachers’ knowledge and values are passed on to future generations.

    Bago further announced the lifting of the suspension on the payment of PTA levies, noting that payments will now be supervised by the Ministry of Education to guarantee effective utilization.

    READ ALSO; Nigeria’s non-interest capital market hits N1.6tr

    Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to teachers’ welfare, the governor revealed that all teachers in the state would receive a wage award of ₦20,000 next month. He also donated an 18-seater bus to the NUT Niger State chapter to support its activities.

    The Governor then acknowledged teachers for their immense role in nation building reiterating government’s commitment towards protecting the interest of teachers.

    The Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers Niger State Chapter, Comrade Adamu Mohammed Akayago in his remarks said the theme of this year’s event signifies the reality that teachers are not merely transmitters of knowledge but architects of collective future and as such the welfare, dignity and professional status of teachers must remain a top priority for all stakeholders.

    The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer National Examinations Council NECO, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi while delivering the keynote address tagged, “Together for teachers, together for tomorrow: The imperative for a unified national education strategy,” described teachers as strategic national security assets and key drivers in the formation of civic responsibility.

    He stressed the need for renewed commitment to add value to teachers and empower them.

  • Kwara partners Digital Africa to train 200 pupils on AI

    Kwara partners Digital Africa to train 200 pupils on AI

    Kwara State Government has trained at least 200 school children from across the State on how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to think, create. and solve real-world problems.

    Tagged: “Future Minds Independence AI Bootcamp”, the training was organised in partnership with Digital Equity Africa between October 1-5, 2025. 

    Participants cut across the public and private primary and junior secondary schools, following their ‘seamless’ selection process.

    Speaking at the grand finale in Ilorin on Sunday, Managing Director, Ilorin Innovation Hub, Temi Kolawole, said the sponsorship of 200 participants underscores the government’s commitment to digital inclusion among young people. 

    Kolawole said he was impressed with the manner the pupils exhibited their creative works and expressed optimism that their future is bright.

    “It is very impressive to see young kids under the age of 10 presenting the websites they built, presenting a story book they have written and even music they requested AI to compose. If they can do this at this stage, we can imagine what they will do in the next 5 to 10 years,” he said.

    Such exposure improves their curiosity, innovation, and creativity, he added.

    CEO Digital Equity Africa, Mrs Justina Nnam Oha, said the session was not just about teaching technology but also about shaping mindset, nurturing innovation, and helping young people to see themselves as creators of the digital future, not just consumers of it.

    She commended the government and the Ilorin Innovation Hub for the partnership and their commitment to digital literacy and inclusion in Kwara.

    “Over the past few days, your children have explored the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence, learning how machines think, create, and solve real-world problems. They have collaborated, built, and imagined boldly – proving that the future truly belongs to those who are curious, courageous, and creative,” she told reporters on the sideline of the event.

    “We are deeply grateful. This partnership by the government is commendable in ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the opportunities of tomorrow.

    “To you, the parents—thank you for believing in your children and in this vision. The best investment you can make is in their minds. What you witnessed today are not just projects, but seeds of transformation.”

    Participants such as Abdulkareem Khadijat, Ahmed Imam Ayodeji and Aminat Akanbi, among others, appreciated the state government and Digital Equity Africa for providing them a platform to learn digital skills and be AI-compliant.

  • Students challenged to embrace role as nation builders at Independence Day Conference

    Students challenged to embrace role as nation builders at Independence Day Conference

    In commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, secondary school students across Osun State gathered at the Winners Embassy Arena, Ogooluwa, Osogbo, for the Independence Day Secondary School Students’ Conference, themed “Students as Builders of a Greater Nigeria.”

    The conference, held on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, was convened by Precious Ibuoye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Osun State, as part of his Community Development Service (CDS) project.

    According to Ibuoye, the initiative was inspired by his passion to contribute to nation-building by investing in the next generation of Nigerian leaders.

    “I believe in the power of young people. True greatness is not measured by what you own, but by the lives you touch,” he said. “Change begins with small actions that improve our communities.”

    During the event, participating students received learning materials such as books, pens, bags, and other educational resources. The conference attracted students, teachers, corps members, and government officials from across the state.

    In his keynote address, Hon. Segun Oyewole, Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Mobilisation, stressed the need for young people to take responsibility for national transformation. “Nigeria’s dream can never happen by chance but by choice. We must be bold enough to become the change we desire and start thinking like leaders,” he said.

    Also speaking, Professor Chinwe Obiaku, Director-General and Special Envoy to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, reminded the students that nation-building starts early. “Students are not just the future; they are important today. Corruption is not only political — examination malpractice is part of it. Every Nigerian student must be ready to lead by example,” she cautioned.

    Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Dr. Femi Bello of Redeemer’s University, Mr. Bolatito called on students to demonstrate consistency and integrity in leadership. “Nigeria has never happened to Nigerians except Nigerians happen to Nigeria. Nation-building is an ongoing process, and students must pledge to lead faithfully, diligently, and with integrity,” he stated.

    The conference featured interactive sessions, panel discussions, and school presentations, where students engaged in conversations on independence, governance, and national unity.

    The event concluded with a collective call for Nigerian youths to see themselves not as passive observers but as active participants in building a greater and more prosperous nation.