The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Oyo College of Nursing launches four new faculties

    Oyo College of Nursing launches four new faculties

    The Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, has inaugurated four new faculties designed to meet the growing demand for nursing education and actualise the collegiate status of the institution

    The inauguration held on Tuesday, marked a significant step in nursing education at the institution, elevating former Departments of Nursing, Midwifery and Public Health within the College to standalone faculties of Medical Surgical; Maternal & Child Health; Public Health and Community Care, and Psychiatric and Mental Health. 

    The Provost of the College, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, said this elevation, recognizes the college’s long-standing contributions to nursing education and the growing demand for its programs.

    She asserted that the new framework in the college marks a significant milestone for the institution and the nursing profession in Nigeria.

    Dr. Owolabi, therefore, urged the new deans of faculties to work assiduously towards the attainment of world-class products from the college.

    She appreciated the Heads of Departments, who are now Deans of faculty, for their effectiveness and commitment to the progress of the college.

    While commending the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration, the Provost said the institution had initiated steps to commence degree programmes in collaboration with the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso

    She challenged the deans of faculties to foster nursing education, stressing that the different courses offered must be a tool for advancing the healthcare profession.

    She added, “This development is expected to foster growth and expansion of the nursing program in the College, benefiting both the college and the broader healthcare sector in Nigeria and globally.” 

    The Pro-Chancellor, LAUTECH, Prof. Ayodeji Omole, in his keynote address, described the inauguration as a historic and groundbreaking development.

    He praised the Oyo State College of Nursing’s bold step to infuse new faculties and departments into its academic system.

    He explained that the College’s bold restructuring filled a long-standing gap in Nigeria’s nursing education, particularly among Colleges of Nursing in the country.

    Read Also: Oyo College of Nursing partners NGO to tackle sexual harassment

    “With this inauguration of new faculties, the College will witness a turning point in nursing education and practice,” he said.

    Commending the Provost for her doggedness, he said that Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi has redefined resilience as an administrator.

    He reaffirmed LAUTECH’s commitment to supporting the college’s dream to award degree programmes so as to align with global standards and best professional practices.

  • Kaduna bans class-by-class graduations, unruly ‘sign-out’ culture in schools

    Kaduna bans class-by-class graduations, unruly ‘sign-out’ culture in schools

    The Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) has rolled out new regulations to curb exploitative and unhealthy practices in schools across the state.

    In a public notice signed by its Director-General, Prof. Usman Abubakar Zaria, the authority outlawed graduation ceremonies at every class level, warning that such practices inflate the cost of education and burden parents. Henceforth, graduations will only be allowed for students completing JSS 3 and SS 3.

    The notice stressed that even for these, participation and payments must be voluntary, adding that where compulsory levies are proposed, schools must obtain clearance from KSSQAA four weeks ahead, with evidence of PTA approval.

    Also banned is the “sign-out” culture that often sees final-year students engage in indecent and unruly street activities at the end of examinations. Schools have been directed to provide supervised alternatives such as farewell assemblies, talent exhibitions or mentorship sessions.

    The authority also outlawed consumable textbooks with built-in worksheets, which prevent reuse and increase costs for parents. With effect from September 2026, publishers must provide separate optional workbooks while keeping the main textbooks reusable.

    Read Also: Southern Kaduna leaders hit El-Rufai over ‘lies, disdain’ for indigenes

    On school fees, KSSQAA warned proprietors against unilateral increments or institutional upgrades without its written approval. Such approval, it said, will only follow PTA consent, a formal application, enrolment data and minutes of PTA meetings.

    “Any unauthorized increment will attract strict sanctions,” the statement read, adding that the measures align with Sustainable Development Goal 4 to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education.

    Prof. Zaria reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to making education in Kaduna affordable and accessible, urging proprietors and administrators to ensure strict compliance.

  • Ondo approves N350m for 2025 students’ scholarship, bursary

    Ondo approves N350m for 2025 students’ scholarship, bursary

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the sum of N350 million for the payment of the 2025 scholarship and bursary awards to students of the state origin studying in tertiary institutions across the country.

    In a statement issued by his spokesman, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Tuesday, the governor said the package covers five different categories of scholarship, including those for medical students, law students, and students with disabilities.

    According to him, the funds will benefit about 12,000 students, representing an increase from last year’s N335 million, which is disbursed to 11,200 students.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa recalled that in 2024, his administration had raised the annual bursary from N10,000 to N20,000, while students with disabilities received N75,000 each, and scholarship beneficiaries got N100,000 each.

    He stressed that education remains the cornerstone of development, adding that his government is determined to unlock the potential of young people through access to quality learning.

    “Many of our students face significant financial challenges in pursuing their academic dreams. That is why we provide bursary and scholarship awards, as well as financial assistance, to support them, alleviate financial burdens, and enable them to focus on their studies.

    “These awards are a testament to our commitment to investing in the future of our state and our country. We must ensure that our students have the necessary support to excel in their academic pursuits,” he said.

    The approval comes just two weeks after the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) commenced payment of its 2023/2024 scholarship and bursary scheme, benefitting 4,837 indigent students from its mandate areas.

  • Abuja gears up for gender and inclusion summit 2025

    Abuja gears up for gender and inclusion summit 2025

    Abuja is set to host the Gender and Inclusion Summit 2025 (GS-25) on Wednesday and Thursday, September 3–4, at the Abuja Continental Hotel, bringing together policymakers, business leaders, civil society, and development partners to advance inclusive development across Africa.

    Convened by the Policy Innovation Centre (PIC), the summit will run under the theme “New Voices, New Approaches for Accelerating an Inclusive Society.” 

    It seeks to address persistent gender inequities while positioning inclusion as a driver of social and economic transformation.

    Sessions will spotlight critical issues, including Nigeria’s 18 million out-of-school children, the struggles of young people chasing opportunities in a tough economy, barriers faced by women and persons with disabilities in urban transport, and the urgent need to curb preventable maternal deaths through stronger accountability frameworks.

    Another highlight will be a plenary featuring First Ladies, showcasing how they are turning policies into grassroots solutions that shift cultural norms and empower women.

    Key speakers include PIC Chairman Udeme Ufot, Executive Director Dr. Osasuyi Dirisu, and keynote speaker Oley Dibba-Wadda, Founder of the Gam Africa Institute for Leadership and board member of Women Political Leaders (WPL).

    Organisers added that the summit will provide a platform to amplify new perspectives and chart practical pathways toward a more inclusive and equitable Africa.

  • UBEC, firm sign MoU to give 47m laptops, tablets to students, teachers

    UBEC, firm sign MoU to give 47m laptops, tablets to students, teachers

    The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Digital Learning Network (DLN), a United States corporation, to implement a comprehensive National Digital Education Transformation Project to increase access and improve the quality of education.

    The MoU signed at UBEC headquarters on Monday in Abuja is to ensure distribution of 47 million laptops and tablets to students and teachers across the basic education sector – pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary schools- with equitable access to world-class digital learning tools, infrastructure, and training.

    DLN, working with Deloitte Financial Advisory, United Bank of Africa (UBA) Plc, Zenith Bank, and the National Credit Guarantee Company, will fully fund this transformation through private investments from development finance institutions that support its global technology partners and institutional investors.

    Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, highlighted the importance of the project, saying the initiative would transform learning in pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary schools, especially in remote and underserved communities.

    She noted that the project represents one of the most significant educational technology initiatives globally.

    The core components, as detailed in the MoU, include: device deployment involving the distribution of 47 million DLN-branded laptops and tablets pre-loaded with digital textbooks and interactive learning materials fully aligned with the Nigerian curriculum set by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).

    There would also be the deployment of a robust hybrid internet infrastructure combining 5G, local telecom partnerships, and SpaceX’s Starlink satellite technology to guarantee minimum broadband speeds of 50 Mbps for schools, even in the most remote and rural communities.

    The UBEC boss disclosed that there would also be a nationwide digital pedagogy programme for educators, administrators, and support staff in collaboration with the National Teachers’ Institute to ensure alignment with national standards.

    Read Also: UBEC promises access to quality learning

    According to her, the project involves the deployment of an Advanced Learning Platform that would see to the implementation of an AI-powered Learning Management System (LMS) for real-time student performance tracking, automated grading, and enhanced parent-teacher communication.

    “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to fulfilling our mandate under the UBEC Act.

    “By leveraging DLN’s technology and financing model, we can bridge the digital divide and ensure every Nigerian child has access to quality basic education, in line with the Renewed HOPE agenda, National Policy on Education and Sustainable Development Goal 4. This is a transformative leap for our education system,” she stated.

    Garba added, “This partnership will provide about forty-seven million students and their teachers with devices bundled with digital learning content and internet connectivity.

    “It’s a transformative leap to our education system in Nigeria. In addition to the 47 million devices, laptops, there will also be a provision of connectivity, internet connectivity, working with all the relevant partners, ensuring that there is infrastructure as well as the minimum standards across all the schools that will benefit from this particular project.

    “There will be teacher training in collaboration with the National Teachers Institute to ensure that it aligns with our national standards.”

    She added that the project would also include teacher training, internet access, and the establishment of regional hubs for assembling and distributing the devices.

    “The hubs will create jobs, build local expertise, and boost the economy,” she said.

    DLN President and CEO, Thomas Larmena, described the rollout as the largest digital education project in Africa.

    He said, “This is a unique opportunity to digitally transform Nigeria’s education sector at no cost to federal or state governments, while keeping costs low for parents and students. We have secured strong global partners, including Huawei and Samsung, and we are ready to roll out nationwide.”

    He revealed that the project had already begun in Akwa Ibom State, with more states set to join through commitments from the Nigerian Governors’ Forum.

    “This is a unique opportunity, and for us, with this project, it becomes the largest digital transformation education project across Africa.

    “So we are very proud and very happy to be here, and we want to give a lot of thanks to the executive director and her team for working with us in getting the project to this stage,” he said.

    A critical pillar of the collaboration is the establishment of state-of-the-art regional laptop assembly facilities within Nigeria.

    These facilities, to be located in special economic zones, will have an initial production capacity of one million devices annually, scalable to two million.

  • AAUA lecturers begin indefinite strike over unpaid salaries, arrears

    AAUA lecturers begin indefinite strike over unpaid salaries, arrears

    Lecturers at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), have embarked on an indefinite strike to protest the non-payment of their salaries and arrears.

    The action, which commenced last Thursday, followed a Congress meeting of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), after which the union formally notified the institution’s management of its decision.

    The strike has since crippled academic and social activities on campus, leaving students expressing mixed concerns over the development.

    In a letter signed by ASUU-AAUA Chairperson, Boluwaji Oshodi, and Secretary, Olusegun Taiwo, the lecturers stated that they would not return to work until all outstanding salaries and arrears were fully paid.

    Meanwhile, the Ondo State Government has assured that it is already taking steps to engage the striking lecturers in order to resolve the crisis.

    “We write on behalf of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko Branch, to notify you of the withdrawal of services to the University by members of our Union.

    “This is in line with the resolution taken at the Congress of Thursday, August 21, 2025, over the non-payment of our salaries and arrears.

    “Sir, by this memo, our members have been directed to withdraw their services from all academic activities in the University until all our outstanding salaries and arrears are paid,” a copy of the letter addressed to the school authority and obtained by the Nation read.

    Confirming the letter, Comrade Oshodi told our reporter that the protesting lecturers have written a series of letters to both the university and state government to demand the payment of their salaries and arreas. 

    He said the lecturers decided to embark on a ‘total strike’ action to press home for their demands, vowing that they are noting looking back until they get paid for their service in the state’s owned university. 

    “We have written a series of letters to the management. We also wrote several letters to the state government. Before now, we have given a series of warnings, and we have done virtually everything possible to ensure our salaries and arrears are paid. 

    “But to be sincere, the major problem we are facing is funding. The state government is not funding the university. As I speak now. We are being owed two months’ salaries (July and August).

    “This is aside several arrears, promotion arrears, essense workload among others running into billions. The state government is not forthcoming. So, we have made up our minds until everything is addressed, we’re not going back,” he said. 

    Read Also: AAUA lecturers urge FG to sign ASUU agreement, warn of looming strike in public varsities 

    Efforts to get the university’s spokesman, Mr. Victor Akinpelumi, for comments were unsuccessful as calls to his line were not answered, while a text message sent to him was undelivered.

    However, the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun dismissed the claim that the government had abandoned the institution.

    He explained that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration has continued to release monthly subventions to all state-owned tertiary institutions, including AAUA, without delay.

    Ajibefun assured that steps were already being taken to engage the striking lecturers with a view to resolving the crisis.

  • Bishop Phillip’s Academy to mark 60th anniversary in Ibadan 

    Bishop Phillip’s Academy to mark 60th anniversary in Ibadan 

    Bishop Phillip’s Academy, Ibadan, will mark its 60th anniversary this year, celebrating six decades of nurturing students since its establishment in October 1964. 

    The school has remained committed to its mission of raising wise and intelligent students who positively impact their communities.

    Alumni chairman, Alhaji Ogunsola Kunle Osupa, a member of the 1979 set, said the diamond jubilee is an opportunity to reunite, strengthen bonds, and uphold the vision of the founder, Chief J. O. Adeniran.

    Read Also: 13,595 families searching for 23,659 missing persons in Nigeria – Red Cross

    The celebration, hosted by Oyo State Governor Oluwaseyi Makinde, will run from Monday, September 29, to Sunday, October 5, 2025. 

    Activities include a road walk, football tournament, talent hunt, project commissioning, awards, and a luncheon.

    The week-long event will feature a Jumat service at Seyi Makinde Mosque on Friday, while a thanksgiving service at Bishop Akinyele Anglican Church, Iwo Road, Ibadan, will conclude the celebration on October 5.

  • SCOBA urges synergy to improve education in Osun

    SCOBA urges synergy to improve education in Osun

    The St. Charles Grammar School Old Boys Association (SCOBA)-Diaspora has called for stronger collaboration between the Osun State Government, educational authorities, and alumni associations of secondary schools as part of efforts to improve the quality of education in the state.

    The call was contained in resolutions reached at the association’s convention tagged “Charleans in Diaspora Convention 2025” held at Atrium Hotel and Suites, Irving, Texas, United States of America.

    The association, comprising former students of St. Charles Grammar School, Osogbo, Osun State, emphasised that a deliberate policy harmonising the contributions of alumni bodies, government, and education managers would significantly enhance students’ academic performance across secondary schools.

    Participants at the convention, drawn from Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Asia, also underscored the importance of regular reviews of the national education curriculum by the Federal Government to reflect the evolving needs of society as well as advancements in science and technology.

    Read Also: Suicide: Senator raises alarm as Nigeria’s toll hits 16,000 annually

    The gathering also witnessed the election of a new executive council to pilot the association’s affairs. The newly elected President, Charlean Mudashiru Adeosun, pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessors in furthering the association’s objectives.

    In his valedictory address, the immediate past President, Engineer Ghazal Ajijolaiya, highlighted his team’s accomplishments, which included the repair and equipping of the iconic Afolalu Building in their alma mater, payment of West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) fees for students, distribution of palliatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the institution of Diaspora Achievement Awards to motivate teachers and learners.

    Other officers elected alongside Mr. Adeosun are Charlean Adesoji Oderinde as Vice Chairman (America), Mr. Oyekanmi Loremikan as Vice Chairman (Europe), Mr. Kazeem Adetunji as General Secretary, Mr. Kayode Ajayi as Treasurer, and Mr. Kayode Fagbemi as Public Relations Officer.

  • School owners endorse SDS Int’l

    School owners endorse SDS Int’l

    By Oreoluwa Oluga

    School proprietors have passed a vote of confidence on the management and staff of Schools Development and Support International Limited (SDS), for what they described as their commitment to quality and efficient service delivery.

    Speaking with a cross section of school proprietors and teachers they emphasised that their association with SDS International has been more beneficial in many ways than one.

    Firing the first salvo, Sister Helen Nwoko, the Head Teacher at Our Lady Apostles Primary School, Yaba, Lagos, recalled that her first impression about the educational-support company was about a company promising and keeping its words, stressing that till date the company keeps coming up with new solutions that are not only innovative but deliver optimally too.

    “I have known SDS for almost a decade. The first time I met the CEO, it was an amazing time. Meeting him and interacting with him showed me he has a lot to offer. During our discussion, I could see that he was a very humble person, ready to assist the school to achieve her goals,” she recounted.

    Sister Nwoko, who is also the Head Teacher of Poplong OLA School, Asaba, Delta State, said, “As the head teacher of the primary school then, I keyed in to make sure that I got something new from him — which I am very happy that I did,” adding that, “Coming today is a wow for me. What I saw is great. What I saw the last time I came and what I am seeing here now is a big gap because this is a new innovation and a big discovery — new things that would be good for a school.”

    Read Also: World Youth Championships: Nigeria’s duo makes historic  podium finish in Kuala Lumpur

    Upbeat, she advised school proprietors and educators, especially those in charge of schools, to dive into the developments from SDS.

    “They are doing great, and when you are open, you are going to learn more and get new facilities from them that will aid your school grow from strength to strength.”

    On her part, the Principal, Maywood Girls College, Lagos, Rev. Sister. Gertrude Elegekwu said SDS was introduced to her by a fellow Rev Sister. We started working with them; the sliding board was the best because we saw quality and durability. I kept demanding for more till we had a complete set.”

    Also commenting, Mrs. Mba Uwem, teacher, Maywood Girls College, Lagos, said, “SDS products make teaching simple, especially in building legible handwriting for my students.”

    For Mrs. Odunlami of Pampers Schools & Rainbow College, she says their experience has been indeed wonderful. “We started with the display board and later expanded. Our experience has been very favorable. The CEO of SDS is someone with a passion to support schools, making learning fun and meaningful.”

    Also sharing her own experience, Mrs. Comfort Omosebi Omotayo of Conpruve Schools, Lagos, described the SDS as service and efficiency-driven. “Our first start with SDS was the slate and ever since then a lot of parents have been recommending our school. Our experience with SDS International Limited has been very exciting for me in particular because I got to know about them through referral. A fellow school owner had sent me their fliers after expressing her satisfaction with their products. I placed some orders for their markers, and a few other items and that’s how we got glued. It’s been over four years we have been dealing with them and it’s been an awesome experience. Their products are tested and trusted. I have no qualms at all recommending their services to any new and prospective customer.”

    Lending credence to the foregoing, Engineer Anthony Nwachukwu Isiani, CEO of Schools Development and Support (SDS) International Limited, said, SDS products, including chairs, desks, writing tablets, and audiovisual equipment, are designed with the school environment in mind, prioritising safety, durability, and interactive learning.

    “Our products are designed with educators and students in mind, promoting a stimulating and functional learning environment. For us at SDS, we prioritise safety in everything we produce, ensuring your school supplies meet the strictest child safety standards. Our markers, boards, furniture, and supplies are built to last, enduring the daily wear and tear of busy classrooms. Our products inspire creative expression and interactive learning, fostering a fun and engaging atmosphere,” he maintained.

  • Should civil servants participate in partisan politics? In search for final answer

    Should civil servants participate in partisan politics? In search for final answer

    By Oreoluwa Oluga

    School proprietors have passed a vote of confidence on the management and staff of Schools Development and Support International Limited (SDS), for what they described as their commitment to quality and efficient service delivery.

    Speaking with a cross section of school proprietors and teachers they emphasised that their association with SDS International has been more beneficial in many ways than one.

    Firing the first salvo, Sister Helen Nwoko, the Head Teacher at Our Lady Apostles Primary School, Yaba, Lagos, recalled that her first impression about the educational-support company was about a company promising and keeping its words, stressing that till date the company keeps coming up with new solutions that are not only innovative but deliver optimally too.

    “I have known SDS for almost a decade. The first time I met the CEO, it was an amazing time. Meeting him and interacting with him showed me he has a lot to offer. During our discussion, I could see that he was a very humble person, ready to assist the school to achieve her goals,” she recounted.

    Sister Nwoko, who is also the Head Teacher of Poplong OLA School, Asaba, Delta State, said, “As the head teacher of the primary school then, I keyed in to make sure that I got something new from him — which I am very happy that I did,” adding that, “Coming today is a wow for me. What I saw is great. What I saw the last time I came and what I am seeing here now is a big gap because this is a new innovation and a big discovery — new things that would be good for a school.”

    Upbeat, she advised school proprietors and educators, especially those in charge of schools, to dive into the developments from SDS.

    Read Also: NUJ, activist ask Aiyedatiwa to give legal backing for ban on ‘graduation parties’ in Ondo schools

    “They are doing great, and when you are open, you are going to learn more and get new facilities from them that will aid your school grow from strength to strength.”

    On her part, the Principal, Maywood Girls College, Lagos, Rev. Sister. Gertrude Elegekwu said SDS was introduced to her by a fellow Rev Sister. We started working with them; the sliding board was the best because we saw quality and durability. I kept demanding for more till we had a complete set.”

    Also commenting, Mrs. Mba Uwem, teacher, Maywood Girls College, Lagos, said, “SDS products make teaching simple, especially in building legible handwriting for my students.”

    For Mrs. Odunlami of Pampers Schools & Rainbow College, she says their experience has been indeed wonderful. “We started with the display board and later expanded. Our experience has been very favorable. The CEO of SDS is someone with a passion to support schools, making learning fun and meaningful.”

    Also sharing her own experience, Mrs. Comfort Omosebi Omotayo of Conpruve Schools, Lagos, described the SDS as service and efficiency-driven. “Our first start with SDS was the slate and ever since then a lot of parents have been recommending our school. Our experience with SDS International Limited has been very exciting for me in particular because I got to know about them through referral. A fellow school owner had sent me their fliers after expressing her satisfaction with their products. I placed some orders for their markers, and a few other items and that’s how we got glued. It’s been over four years we have been dealing with them and it’s been an awesome experience. Their products are tested and trusted. I have no qualms at all recommending their services to any new and prospective customer.”

    Lending credence to the foregoing, Engineer Anthony Nwachukwu Isiani, CEO of Schools Development and Support (SDS) International Limited, said, SDS products, including chairs, desks, writing tablets, and audiovisual equipment, are designed with the school environment in mind, prioritising safety, durability, and interactive learning.

    “Our products are designed with educators and students in mind, promoting a stimulating and functional learning environment. For us at SDS, we prioritise safety in everything we produce, ensuring your school supplies meet the strictest child safety standards. Our markers, boards, furniture, and supplies are built to last, enduring the daily wear and tear of busy classrooms. Our products inspire creative expression and interactive learning, fostering a fun and engaging atmosphere,” he maintained.