The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Association donates desks, sponsors pupils’ exams in Eti-Osa

    Association donates desks, sponsors pupils’ exams in Eti-Osa

    In a bid to promote education and community development, members of the National Association of Liberated Tigers (NALT), Nigeria, Warsaw chapter, have donated desks, writing materials, and sponsored Common Entrance examination forms for selected pupils at Oba Yekini Adeniyi Elegushi Primary School, Itedo, in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos.

    The association also carried out a clean-up exercise, which included the evacuation of the school’s soakaway and clearing of refuse around the premises.

    Speaking at the outreach, President of the association, Stanley Nnaemeka, said the initiative was part of the group’s mission to give back to society through self-funded interventions.

    READ ALSO: FULL STEPS: How to be a LAGRIDE driver, earn N250,000, above

    “This is not for selfish gain. We are not doing this because life is perfect for us. We are young men from different walks of life who came together to contribute our quota to society and see how we can alleviate suffering in our country. We donated desks, writing materials, and ensured the school’s soakaway and waste were cleared. It’s our way of making a difference”, he said.

    Nnaemeka added that nine outstanding pupils were identified and their Common Entrance examination fees paid in full by the association.

    “These children were selected based on their performance. Their brilliance earned them full sponsorship for their upcoming exams,” he noted.

    He urged pupils to stay focused on their education and called on other non-profit organisations to emulate NALT’s example.

    “Education brings wisdom and freedom. With collective effort, even one naira from each person can make real impact. NGOs should stop waiting for billions, start small, and you can still change lives”, he said.

    The Head Teacher of the school, Margret Ukachi, expressed appreciation to the group, describing the visit as timely and impactful.

    “I’m very, very happy. Some of our pupils are preparing for exams, but they don’t even have exercise books or pens. What this club has done has put smiles on their faces. The children they paid for are those whose parents cannot afford the Common Entrance fees. Their parents will be very happy. We are grateful,” she said.

    The Baale of Itedo Land, Chief Ogunyemi John, lauded the association for reaching out to the community in a “way that touched both educational and environmental needs”.

    He said: “Donating desks and books, paying for children’s exams, and cleaning the school, these are things that show true community spirit. But we are like Oliver Twist, we are asking for more. We hope they will come again, not just to support the school but also look into other pressing needs of the wider community. They have started something good and we encourage them not to stop here”.

  • ASUU protest paralyses UNIBEN

    ASUU protest paralyses UNIBEN

    Members of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), on Tuesday, joined a one- day protest over the non-implementation of the renegotiated 2009 agreement reached with the Federal Government.

    The protesters marched to the office of the Vice Chancellor with placards as they sang solidarity songs.

    They called on the Federal Government to implement the renegotiated 2009 agreement reached with the union.

    Chairman of UNIBEN ASUU, Ray Chikogu, said the 2009 agreement ought to have been reviewed several times since it was signed in 2009.

    READ ALSO: FULL STEPS: How to be a LAGRIDE driver, earn N250,000, above

     “In this country, we are the only group of people who have been subjected to that kind of treatment and we are saying we can’t take it anymore. 

    “We want to tell Nigerians that we have been in the same salary7 for sixteen years, it has never happened anywhere in the world, it is only Nigeria that lecturers and academics are treated with so much disdain.

    “If you go around the world, countries are investing in their education, it is only in Nigeria we allocate paltry sums to education. But we are saying that will not let education die in Nigeria and so the federal government must rise up to its responsibilities.”

     Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics, Professor Victor Igbineweka and the Registrar, Ademola Bobola, received the protesters.

    Bobola said they would send the ASUU demands to the Federal Government.

  • FUTA ASUU stages protest, demands implementation of 2009 agreement

    FUTA ASUU stages protest, demands implementation of 2009 agreement

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) branch, on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest within the institution’s campus, demanding that the federal government implement the renegotiated 2009 ASUU–FGN agreement.

    The protest was in compliance with the directive of the union’s National Secretariat to all branches nationwide to demonstrate against what it described as the government’s neglect of critical issues affecting the education sector.

    Carrying placards with different inscriptions, FUTA-ASUU members warned that a fresh crisis might soon hit the country’s university system if the government continued to ignore their demands.

    Addressing journalists in Akure, the ASUU-FUTA Chairman, Prof. Pius Mogaji accused the federal government of treating issues affecting universities with “recklessness.”

    He lamented that despite the conclusion and submission of the report of the Alhaji Yayale Ahmed-led renegotiation committee since February 2025, the government had allowed the document to “gather dust in the corridors of power.”

    “Regrettably, months later, we are compelled to inform the Nigerian public that these legitimate and long-standing issues remain unaddressed, a trend that threatens our already fragile educational sector and faces the imminent risk of yet another crisis,” Mogaji said.

    Read Also: FUTA open distance learning bridging admission gaps, says ODIC director

    He noted that ASUU had run out of patience, warning that the union would not hesitate to take decisive steps if the government failed to act.

    “Our patience has been stretched to its breaking point. Trust has been shattered, and only decisive government action can mend it. The NEC has resolved that all options remain on the table. If the government chooses provocation over responsibility, then it must bear the consequences of the storm that will follow,” he added.

    Mogaji also rejected the federal government’s loan scheme for lecturers, urging members to resist being lured into debt while their withheld salaries and arrears remain unpaid.

    “Pay the outstanding three months of withheld salaries. Honour the agreement you signed. Respect the dignity of those who build and sustain the knowledge economy. We will not be silenced. We will not be enslaved by debt,” he declared.

    The FUTA ASUU chairman further criticized what he described as the “reckless proliferation” of universities, especially private ones without adequate infrastructure or qualified staff.

    “With 339 universities nationwide—72 federal, 108 state, and 159 private—education is now being reduced to roadside shops and political souvenirs,” he said.

    On the plight of retired academics, Mogaji condemned the meagre pensions some receive, as low as N150,000 monthly, calling it “a curse upon the nation’s conscience.”

    He appealed to stakeholders, including the National Assembly, NIREC, NANS, and traditional rulers, to prevail on government and avert another avoidable crisis in the university system.

    “Enough is enough. We are not fooled by empty promises. Any regime that starves its thinkers, enslaves its workers, and abandons its elders will be remembered only with scorn,” Mogaji stated.

  • Abia begins induction training for 5,349 newly recruited teachers

    Abia begins induction training for 5,349 newly recruited teachers

    The Abia state government has commenced the induction training of 5,349 newly recruited teachers, marking what officials describe as a new phase in the state’s drive for quality education and teacher development.

    Speaking with reporters, the Commissioner for Education, Kenechukwu Nwosu, said the 12-day programme, holding simultaneously in Aba and Umuahia, is a major achievement of Governor Alex Otti’s administration. 

    Facilitated by trained lead master trainers and ERIT consultants, the training will focus on modern teaching methods, classroom management, digital literacy, inclusive education, and STEAM-based learning.

    Nwosu highlighted that the state government has also prioritized teacher welfare, citing prompt salary payments and improved benefits. 

    Read Also: Police rescue five kidnap victims, neutralise five suspected kidnappers in Kebbi, Abia

    He noted that the reforms have rejuvenated the teaching profession in Abia, reflected in the over 30,000 applications received within two weeks of the recruitment announcement earlier this year.

    The initiative is part of the AbiaFIRST Education Programme, which includes free and compulsory education from Primary 1 to JSS 3, retrofitting of over 221 schools, construction of 20 smart schools, and strengthening technical and vocational education to enhance employability.

    “Abia State is positioning itself as a model for teacher recruitment, training, and retention, ensuring that no child is left behind,” Nwosu added.

  • UI commences post-UTME screening for 2025/26 admission seekers

    UI commences post-UTME screening for 2025/26 admission seekers

    The University of Ibadan has started its post-UTME (Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) screening of candidates seeking admission into its 21 faculties for undergraduate programmes in the 2025/2026 academic session.

    The computer-based screening, which commenced on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the 1,500-capacity Computer-Based Testing Centre of the university’s Distance Learning Centre, is scheduled to run for three days.

    The screening exercises are scheduled to be held in four batches on each day to accommodate the 14,000 admission seekers who have registered and are expected to participate in the exercise.

    Medical personnel from the University Health Services (Jaja Clinic) are on hand to attend to any medical emergency that may occur in the course of the exercise.

    Read Also: UNN cancels 2023/2024 Post-UTME over harsh economy

    Safety officers of the university are also on site to maintain crowd control and ensure the safety of participants and their parents/guardians, who patiently waited within the premises of the CBT Centre under designated canopies.

    The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Professor Peter Olapegba, other principal officers of the university and designated teaching and non-teaching staff were also on hand to monitor the exercises.

  • Hamzat lauds Reps member for lifting Epe with new schools, other projects

    Hamzat lauds Reps member for lifting Epe with new schools, other projects

    Lagos state deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat, has inaugurated three schools built by the member representing Epe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Wale Raji, in his constituency.

    In all, the schools are blocks of 12 fully-furnished classrooms with toilets each at Oko-Abe in Epe Local Government Area; Ilege in Lekki Local Council Development Area and Owu-Ikosi in Ikosi-Ejinrin Local Council Development Area.

    A statement by the media office of the federal lawmaker on Monday stated that ceremonies were opened with top government officials, traditional rulers, political leaders, and other community stakeholders in attendance.

     The deputy governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, lauded the initiative of the federal lawmaker.

    He described the schools as more than just physical structures, but that “This is representation in another great form. Indeed, you’ve done well, my brother. I am optimistic that the future is bright for our students.”

    Continuing, Dr. Hamzat said, “These new buildings are more than just bricks and mortar; they are sanctuaries for learning. They represent our commitment to providing a safe and conducive environment for learning, free from overcrowding and distractions. These classrooms are a promise, a promise that their futures matter to us,” the deputy governor said.

    He reminded teachers and administrators that “a building alone does not make a school; it is the spirit within its walls that truly matters. These gifts are tools, please use them to inspire and build the next generation of Nigerians.”

    To students, the Deputy Governor encouraged them to seize the opportunity, “This is the harbour of early knowledge, built with your future in mind. Please study hard, be disciplined, and aim for excellence in all you do. To whom much is given, much is expected, make us proud.”

    Addressing those in attendance, Rep. Wale Raji stated that the project was a testament that he is touching base with the remote areas of the constituency, which had in the past been neglected by politicians who only showed up during electioneering campaigns.

    “We have decided to change the narrative. Before now, the allegations levelled against politicians are that they only show up in remote communities and riverine areas during electioneering periods and after getting the votes, they’re nowhere to be found, not to mention bringing the dividends of democracy to them. But the narrative has changed,” Raji said.

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    He added, “During the election, we came here to campaign for votes and you cast your votes for our party, and what we’re witnessing today is a confirmation that we’re trustworthy as a party and this will not be the first intervention that we will embark on in this ward,” he declared.

    Highlighting his past and ongoing interventions, such as solar street lights, bridges to end perennial flooding, new classrooms at Oriba Primary School, jetties, roads, and vocational centres, he added, “When schools are opened, gates to a prison are closed.”

    At Ilege, Raji reminded the community of their long-standing demand, which had been fulfilled, “You challenged me then, and I’m happy that I didn’t disappoint you. Your request for transformers, solar-powered borehole and a network of roads, and to crown it all, we have been able to establish a new secondary school in Ilege.”

    At Owu-Ikosi, he underscored the importance of preparing children for tomorrow, saying, “Education is very important, and if we do not make adequate provision for our children, we are endangering their future. But with this, we’re preparing them for the challenges of the future.”

  • UBEC reaffirms commitment to basic education reforms

    UBEC reaffirms commitment to basic education reforms

    The Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to bridging the gap between planning and performance in Nigeria’s basic education sector towards ensuring access to quality education for every Nigerian child.

    Speaking in Lagos on Monday at the 27th Quarterly Meeting of UBEC Management with Executive Chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs), Garba highlighted the significant strides made in reforming and repositioning the sector, noting that progress recorded so far is only a first step towards achieving greater impact.

    She emphasised that while these reforms represent significant progress, they must be consolidated through stronger accountability and performance management systems.

    “Our sector is not lacking in sound policies and robust plans for basic education. The real challenge is translating these plans into tangible outcomes. Too often, we see a disconnect between planning and performance, largely due to poor coordination, weak institutional capacity, inconsistencies in financial management, and limited mechanisms to track progress and adjust programmes,” she said.

    On key achievements so far, she said: “Revision of the UBEC Matching grant formula to improve data-driven resource allocation, equity, and accountability.

    “Improving states’ access to financing for basic education through the UBEC matching grants; 27 out of the 36+1 states have accessed part of the N121 billion un-accessed matching grants backlogs from 2024, representing a 65% increase in access to finance.

    “Revamp of the two-decade-old Basic Education Action Plan (BEAP) template and process to promote needs-based planning and accelerate implementation.

    “Expansion of school infrastructure nationwide, with 4,900 classrooms constructed, 3,000 renovated, and 354,000 units of furniture supplied, directly benefiting over 2.3 million learners in 2025 alone.

    Read Also: UBEC targets 1m girls for empowerment, education

    “Launch of Nigeria’s largest teacher development programme with a N 22 billion investment in teacher capacity building to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

    “If we are to move from aspirations to impact, UBEC cannot do this work alone. Only through state-level collaboration, commitment, and consistency can we ensure that every Nigerian child not only has access to education but also receives the quality learning they deserve,” she added.

     Dean of SUBEB Chairmen, Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, emphasized the importance of evidence-based planning, digital tools, and data-driven decision-making in strengthening basic education delivery. He urged SUBEBs and UBEC to conduct regular assessments to track learners’ progress and ensure that schools are adequately equipped with classrooms, libraries, technology, and learning materials.

  • Fed Govt unveils digital portal for teachers’ registration, licensing, others

    Fed Govt unveils digital portal for teachers’ registration, licensing, others

    The federal government has unveiled a digital portal for the registration, licensing of teachers nationwide.

    The portal is also expected to provide a transparent and credible database of qualified professionals; enable real-time access to professional development opportunities and strengthen accountability; and restore dignity to the teaching profession.

    Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, unveiled the portal on Monday, developed by the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) with support from the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Funded-Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) aimed at strengthening the Nigerian teaching workforce.

    Alausa said that the government has introduced a mandatory teacher ethics and criminal record verification framework.

    He said that this would ensure that no teacher in public or private institutions was employed without undergoing ethics screening and criminal background checks.

    According to the Minister, the new framework is part of wider reforms to restore dignity, accountability, and professionalism in Nigeria’s teaching sector.

    The minister said that the government was committed to safeguarding the integrity of the classroom by ensuring that only individuals of sound moral character and verified ethical conduct are entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the nation’s future.

    He added that the framework would also help in identifying and removing individuals with questionable backgrounds who may pose risks to students and undermine the values of education.

    Alausa explained that the verification framework will work hand-in-hand with the TRCN digital portal, which has been designed to provide real-time teacher registration, licensing, and monitoring.

    He said that through this system, school administrators, government agencies, and relevant stakeholders will be able to easily verify the authenticity of teachers’ credentials and their compliance with the new ethical standards.

    The minister noted that this measure would not only promote transparency but also eliminate cases of impersonation, forgery, and unqualified teaching staff within the education system.

    He stated, “As part of our reform agenda, we are introducing a mandatory Teacher Ethics and Criminal Record Verification Framework. No teacher, whether in public or private institutions, will henceforth be employed without undergoing ethics screening and criminal background checks.

    “Private school owners will be mandated to verify the TRCN registration and ethical clearance of their teachers. The TRCN Portal will integrate a secure verification system to make this possible in real time.”

    Also speaking at the launch in Abuja, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, noted that the launch of the portal will not only lead to the digitisation of records, she noted that it will also provide a credible database of Nigerian teachers.

    She said, “Today, we are not merely unveiling a portal; we are opening a new chapter. A chapter where technology, innovation, and efficiency become the heartbeat of teacher professionalism in our country.

    “In a world that is increasingly digital, where knowledge travels at the speed of light and where nations are competing through ideas, skills, and creativity, Nigeria cannot afford to remain behind.

    “To build the future we dream of, we must embrace the tools of the 21st century. Through the creation of this portal, TRCN is not merely digitising records; it is redefining the narrative of the Nigerian teaching profession.

    “With this innovation, we will now: ensure seamless registration and licensing of teachers nationwide; provide a transparent and credible database of qualified professionals; enable real-time access to professional development opportunities and strengthen accountability and restore dignity in the teaching profession.”

    Chief Executive of TRCN, Dr. Ronke Soyombo, revealed that 30 per cent of Nigerian children are unable to read and write.

    She listed features in the new portal to include Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered lesson planning, criminal records checks, teachers’ investigation panels in each state of the Federation, among others.

    Soyombo said the portal would enhance the quality of teaching in Nigeria by providing a platform for teachers to access training, resources, and support.

    Also speaking at the event, Senior Education Advisor, British High Commission, Ian Attfield, stressed the need to ensure that teachers are adequately trained and motivated in the course of duty.

    He assured that the UK government will continue to offer support to Nigeria’s education sector.

    Attfield emphasised the need for a system that integrates various data systems, motivates teachers, and uses a combination of incentives and support to improve teaching quality.

    He said, “The UK government, through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) – PLANE programme, has been delighted to work with TRCN on the development of the portal, but also, I think more broadly, looking at their strategic vision and plan over the next few years.

  • ASUU warns FG over unresolved university issues

    ASUU warns FG over unresolved university issues

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Akure Zone, has expressed deep frustration with the federal government over its handling of long-standing challenges in the university system, saying its patience is running out.

    Speaking at a press conference on Monday at the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), the Zonal Chairman, Prof. Adeola Egbedokun, said several critical issues remain unresolved.

    These include the re-negotiation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement, sustainable funding for public universities, unchecked establishment of new institutions, retirement benefits for academic staff, and matters relating to TISSF loans and financial obligations.

    Egbedokun noted that the report of the Alhaji Yayale Ahmed-led renegotiation team, submitted to the federal government in February 2025, has yet to be acted upon, leaving academics concerned about the future of the country’s education sector.

    He said, “For more than five long months, the government has treated the report with reckless indifference, a clear betrayal of trust as well as an insult to the principle of collective bargaining. To ignore it is to undermine the very foundation of higher education in this country.

    “While we take note of the government’s planned meeting of August 28, 2025, let it be clear: the clock is ticking, and time is no longer on the federal government’s side. Our patience has been stretched to its breaking point. Trust has been shattered, and only decisive government action can mend it.

    “The NEC has resolved that all options remain on the table. If the government chooses provocation over responsibility, if it continues to play games with the future of our Universities, then it alone must bear the consequences of the storm that will follow. The ball is squarely in the government’s court. Restore trust—now—or brace for the inevitable”, he added.

    The union leader who emphasised the need for adequate funding to revitalise the university system criticised the federal government’s decision to approve new private universities while neglecting the challenges facing existing institutions.

    He also condemned the government’s loan policy for academics, which it said was primarily designed to suffocate academics as well as undermine their cooperative societies.

    “This loan policy is nothing but a crude distraction and a sinister snare. To force academics into a cycle of debt for their survival is not only heartless. It is wicked and contemptuous of the sacrifices we make for this nation.

    “Instead of dangling loans like poisonous bait, the federal government must face its moral and contractual obligations. Pay the outstanding three and a half months of withheld salaries. Honour the agreement you signed. Respect the dignity of those who build and sustain the knowledge economy. We therefore call on our members: shun this deceitful loan scheme. Do not fall into the trap”, he said.

    Read Also: ASUU decries poor retirement package for varsity teachers

    Egbetokun bemoaned the poor treatment of retired academics, who are forced to live on meagre pensions, saying the plight of retired colleagues is not just shameful but a curse upon Nigeria’s conscience.

    He, however, has called on the federal government to take immediate action to address these lingering issues, warning that ASUU’s patience has worn thin and wouldn’t hesitate to take frontal actions.

    The ASUU zonal leader said the Union has resolved to allow the government a brief window to respond to its demands and has slated rallies across campuses tomorrow to signal its determination.

    “These rallies represent our first decisive response to the government’s inaction, a signal of what lies ahead if our concerns continue to be ignored”, he added. 

  • Three reasons JAMB ordered fresh upload of WAEC results for 2025 admissions

    Three reasons JAMB ordered fresh upload of WAEC results for 2025 admissions

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has directed all UTME candidates to re-upload their 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC SSCE) results. This directive comes after some candidates uploaded their O’level results before the final WAEC SSCE results were released. To ensure accuracy in admission processing and prevent discrepancies, JAMB cleared all previously uploaded results from its system.

    Here are the reasons for re-upload:

    1. Prevent discrepancies: Ensure accuracy in admission processing by using official final results.

    2. Official WAEC Results: Only final WAEC SSCE results will be considered for admissions.

    Read Also: JAMB screens results of 6,458 UTME candidates over ‘high-tech cheating’

    3. Mandatory for All: JAMB mandated a fresh upload for every candidate.

    What candidates should do:

    1. Re-upload Results: Urgently re-upload 2025 SSCE results on the JAMB portal via accredited centers.

    2. Avoid unauthorised uploads: Use only JAMB-approved centers to prevent falsification of results.

      Importance of compliance
      with this directive is crucial for the admission process. Candidates should ensure they follow JAMB’s guidelines for re-uploading their WAEC results to avoid any issues with their admissions.