The seventh vice-chancellor of the university of Maiduguri, and former chairman of the committee of vice-chancellors (CVC), Prof. Jibrilla Dahiru Amin says higher institutions in Nigeria must now imbibe the culture and techniques of strategic fundraising which enables a university like Harvard own about 40 billion dollars in endowments.

Speaking in an interview, Amin said with funding being a major issue facing tertiary institutions in the country, institutions must find ways of not depending on their funders, considering the recent complaints of inadequate funds.

“The major problem facing our universities mainly has to do with funding because of the over dependence on the proprietors be they government or private organizations and individuals.

“Even the Minister of Education in Nigeria has come out of recent to say that government is unable to bear the full financial requirements of its universities, yet more institutions are being created,” he said.

To address funding issues for institutions, Amin, who was also the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Dutse, said various groups such as the Strategic Fundraising and Capital Campaign (SFCC)had come up to design strategic solutions.

He said: “The SFCC is an initiative of several institutions: the Tri-College University consortium is leading the initiative – especially the Minnesota State University at Moorhead (MSUM). There is also the ORBICOM, the Global Network of UNESCO Professors of Communication at the University of Quebec, Montreal Canada. In Nigeria the initiative is being administered by C & F Porter Novelli, a top corporate communications agency in the country.

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“There is also an advisory board with me as the chairman. Other members of the board are Prof. Molefi Asante of Temple University, Philadelphia, USA; Prof Bolaji Aluko the pioneer vice chancellor of the Federal University Otuoke; Prof Ekanem Ikpi-Braide, the President of the Nigerian Academy of Science; Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, the Secretary General of the CVC and Mrs Yinka Ogunde, who is in private business and has a lot of experience in the education sector.

“We (therefore) think that the best way forward is to look across the Atlantic Ocean for best practices in what world class American universities do to ensure relative financial self-sufficiency. American universities rely a lot on philanthropic organizations and individuals to supplement their income from fees paid by students. We are therefore seeking to tap from their wealth of experience in fundraising and hence the Strategic Fundraising and Capital Campaign initiative which is aimed at inculcating the culture of fundraising in our universities and other tertiary institutions.”

Asked who the key target of the initiative are, Prof. Amin said: “The main target of the SFCC are the senior university managers in Nigeria. We are targeting Vice Chancellors, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Registrars, Bursars and Directors of Development/Advancement. We are particularly keen to have on board the people in the Development/Advancement offices of universities because they are directly involved in fundraising as part of their schedule of duties. We shall seek to firmly entrench in the university system a culture of fundraising for self-reliance.”

On the nature of the initiative, Prof. Amin explained that it would involve a series of free monthly webinars and a hybrid summit that will be hosted by the Minnesota State University, (MSUM), USA from September 15 to 18, 2021.

Amin said further:  “The SFCC initiative consists of webinars and a summit. There will be seven webinars which will be delivered by subject matter experts from across the world. There will also be a summit which promises to be an intense and exciting three days of training and social events in one of America’s leading universities.”

 

About 2,000 teachers in the Ogun State government’s employ have benefited from a day-long training on Python Programming and Artificial Intelligence.

The event, which was co-organised by the Bureau of Information Technology, in  collaboration with Data Science Nigeria (DSN), Lead Resources, Computer Teachers Association of Nigeria (CTAN) and Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), at Hubert Ogunde Hall, Kuto, Abeokuta.

Addressing reporters at the venue, the Director of Information Technology in the Bureau, Mrs. Olatundun Adekunte, said the training was part of the conscious efforts by the government to transform the secondary school teachers into digitally-smart workers.

Adekunte, in a statement signed by the Bureau’s Information Officer, Mrs. Tokunbo Jaiyeola, said: “Since it is generally accepted that no educational system can rise above the standard of its teachers, the state is totally committed to addressing the digital inadequacies of public school teachers, who are critical to the realisation of the present administration’s ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda.”

She noted that it was imperative to train and retrain the teachers, especially in the area of Information Technology, adding that the present administration was passionate about equipping pupils with ICT skills to prepare them for global competition.

“Indeed, we are in 21st century, where people are dealing with ICT, there will be no need for our teeming youths to be searching for jobs anymore, once they have trained digitally. That is why we need to prepare them for the future, because of its demand in the global economy”, Adekunte said.

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One of the instructors and the Business Manager, DSN, Mr. Amzat Olawasheun said it was a foundation for the primary and secondary school teachers in the state, to make them compete favourably in the area of Python programme and Artificial Intelligence.

Oluwasheun pointed out that teachers need to be adequately equipped and educated on Information Technology, to prepare the upcoming generations for the future challenges, noting that those programmings would be introduced into the primary and secondary school curriculum.

“This is basic foundation for our teachers in the state to develop their intelligence and broaden their knowledge in the area of programmings,  to inculcate what they are taught here to their pupils and the world as well”, she said.

In his contribution, the Third Executive President, CTAN, Mr. Emosu Temitopeoluwa, said that it is important to “catch them young” and implant such critical programmes into their minds, so as to become employers of labour in the nearest future.

“Indeed, Python Programmings is very essential, as at now, we cannot do anything  special on IT without having  knowledge of it. It is a new innovation we all need to vast at, so, our students need to be taught now, as they are still young to  assimilate “, Temitopeoluwa said

Some of the participants, Mr. Elemide Florence of Idiko Gateway Senior Secondary School, Idi-roko, Ipokia  Local Government and Mrs. Sofowote Rasheedat of Wesley Primary School, Iperu, Remo, said the programme was for beginners/starters, to develop their skills in the area of programmings on ICT, commending the state government for facilitating  such  training workshop for both primary and secondary school teachers.

 

By Gbemisola Adesola, Dorcas Aluko

 

NavigateToCanada, a Canadian immigration consulting firm has announced plans to grant Nigerian students scholarships to study in Canada.

It stated this during its opening in Lagos last week.

The President of the firm said at a briefing before last Thursday’s launch held at Providence House, Lekki, Lagos that it was the firm’s way to give back to society.

“We are looking forward to opportunities to give back towards giving scholarships to students. We’ll have scholarship programmes for qualified students to enable them go to Canada to study and sponsor them when the time comes,” he said.

With Canada among the top immigration destinations in the world, he said the firm would help Nigerian students and others find the most suitable Canadian immigration programme available to migrate legally.

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“NavigateToCanada can make you rest assured that you are attended to by people who have experienced and are schooled in immigration law that can help process your request. We also help to profile immigrants for the evaluation so that they can know which of the 80 strings of immigration that they should plug into,” he said.

Also speaking, vice president of the firm said experts at the firm were professionals with over 30 years’ experience dealing with immigration issues.

She added that the firm was a certified member of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).

“When it comes to NavigateToCanada at the immigration aspect, one of the basic problems with immigration is that we have people who are inexperienced who are handling people’s applications and many people have found themselves in trouble by just connecting with the wrong people and making a mess of their application but with NavigateToCanada, you can be rest assured that the people who are handling the applications are experienced.

“As I told you that we have 30 years of experience in handling immigration matter with the wealth of information and wealth of knowledge. We have people who are schooled in immigration more and they can help you to process your application so that you can get successful results in your application,” she said.

By Emma Elekwa, Onitsha

 

The Presidential Visitation Panel to the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State has called for cooperation from workets and students to ensure it delivers on its mandate.

Chairman of the panel, Prof. Abiodun Olotuah, who made the call at the inaugural meeting of stakeholders from the institution, said the mission of the panel was not to witch-hunt the polytechnic, but for system enhancement.

Education Minister, Mallam Adamu Adamu, recently released a list of visitation panels to 38 universities, four inter-university centres, 25 Federal Polytechnics and 21 Colleges of Education as approved by President Muhammadu Buhari, with a directive to submit their reports in six weeks.

Olotuah said the goal of the panel was strict adherence to Federal government’s terms of reference – including – the institution’s atmosphere over the period of 10 years, the conduct and comportment of its personnel, especially staff, students and managers.

He said: “Government constituted this panel to take a careful look at the institution. We have a duty to look at the entire atmosphere and that is why we are calling on the entire polytechnic community to cooperate with us in order to deliver on this mandate.

“Government discovered decadence in the institutions over the years. The panel ought to guide government to take appropriate decisions and as well, summount some challenges facing our institutions. So, we are not here on witch-hunt mission but to serve the institution and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Earlier, the polytechnic Rector, Dr. Francisca Nwafulugo said most of the institution’s programmes were fully accredited, while a few others had interim accreditation.  She announced plans to represent some of the programmes to the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) along with new ones.

She said the management, under her watch has taken delivery of five gigantic buildings through Tetfund and office complex for the Deans which was completed through the institution’s internally generated revenue.

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She further said many stagnanated members of staff were promoted, converted or upgraded to inspire them for maximum productivity, an action and decision she said was in line with her promise of improving staff welfare.

She said: “Our polytechnic relates well with the host communities of Ufuma, Atani and Oko and as well sustains peace between management, staff and students, especially unions in the campus.

“Within our two years in office, God has helped us to complete five gigantic structures sponsored by Tetfund. These include a multi-purpose hall, the School of General Studies building, the Renewable Energy building, an ICT building, Agricultural Engineering building, among others. We were also able to complete a 1.23 Kilometer road to open up the extension site where we have a concentration of our buildings.

“With efforts made by management, Tetfund has approved a continuation of some abandoned projects. So, very soon, we shall commence work on them.We also have some other structures at various levels of completion.

“For example, the Food Technology Laboratory building, the Chemical Engineering building, which will be one of the most impressive structures on campus when completed.  A two-storey building was recently completed and furnished with  Internally- Generated Revenue for the Deans of Schools in accordance with NBTE regulations”

On his part, the newly reconstituted Governing Council chairman of the Polytechnic, Mallam Kale Kawu, who was represented by a council member, Kamelayefa Omonibeke assured that a harmonious working relationship would prevail among the council, presidential visitation panel and the management of the Polytechnic.

He said the council, in its policy formulation function, would ensure that government addressed declining academic standards and unstable academic calendar, adding that transparency and due process would guide their operations.

 

 

By Damola Kola-Dare

 

Over 55 lecturers from tertiary institutions across the six geo-political zones have benefited from computing training courtesy of collaboration between an NGO, STEMi Makers Africa and Oracle Academy.

They gained new skills on database, programming, and data analytics as learning resources in teaching new concepts, enhancing critical knowledge and skills, problem solving, and creativity for better integration of computer engineering and technology into traditional classrooms.

The two-day virtual training  was facilitated by Jeffry Amachree, Principal Technology Architect, ECEMEA Tech West Africa, Olatunde Senewo, Principal Solutions Specialist Engineer, Oracle, among others.

 

The School of Management Sciences recorded the highest number of students as the university held its 11th matriculation for postgraduate students.

Of the total 535 students, 220 were from the School of Management Sciences.

Thanking them for making Babcock their institution of preference, President/Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ademola S. Tayo, urged the matriculating students to uphold the core values for which Babcock is reputed.

“We accept the challenge of giving meaning to human life. That is why our educational system offers a Christ-centred approach to learning,” said Tayo.

He said beyond academic excellence, Babcock offers a holistic education and has won the global brand awards for five consecutive years, 2015 – 2019.

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The occasion, which held at the amphitheatre, also provided platform for other officers to lend their voices.

In his counsel, Senior Vice President (Academics), Prof. Philemon Amanze, urged the students to make the best of the institutional opportunities.

“Education is the passport for the future. Thank you for choosing Babcock,” said Senior Vice President Management Services, Prof. Yacob Haliso.

He extended his appreciation to the university administration for offering the first virtual classes, hooding and convocation ceremonies last year during the lockdown caused  by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

By Damola Kola-Dare

 

Provost, Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Oto-Ijanikin,  (AOCOED), Lagos State, Prof. Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye has emphasised the need for proper investment in teacher-education as part of the new normal following disruptions caused by COVID-19.

“The pandemic has pushed the world into the deepest global recession in living memory which will have lasting effects on economies, public finances, learners and teachers, hence, we urgently need investment and structural change in the teacher-education sector,” she said.

She spoke at the institution’s matriculation for full-time students, held on the campus.

Lafiaji-Okuneye reiterated the college’s commitment to addressing inequality and providing youths with skills to build a better future for themselves and their communities.

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She explained that the institution had adopted technology and numerous innovative teaching methods to help students in their studies.

“We adopt innovative pedagogical approaches alongside direct instruction to help young people not only remember and understand, but analyse and create. We also adopt smart use of technology  and data that allow for real-time adaptation without necessarily replacing analogue approach,” she said.

The Provost urged the freshers to work hard and resist any obstacle that might hamper their progress.

Lafiaji-Okuneye, who noted that their background was not a barrier to their success, enjoined them to eschew unethical practices and make their stay on campus worthwhile.

 

The University of Ilorin (Unilorin) says 2019/2020 Rain Semester Examinations will begin Tuesday and end on May 28.

Mr Kassim Babamale, the institution’s Deputy Registrar, in a statement on Tuesday in Ilorin, advised students to adhere to rules and regulations guiding the conduct of examinations to ensure its success.

“Further to the above, the cooperation of all those involved in the conduct of the examinations is hereby solicited and all necessary machinery needed for hitch-free examinations should be put in place.

“Students are strongly advised not to be involved in any form of examination malpractice, as anyone caught will face appropriate disciplinary action.

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“Also, note that digital wristwatches, mobile sets, i-pods, etc, are prohibited and any electronic device discovered in the examination halls will be impounded,” Babamale said.

He said that students are also required to present to invigilators as duly signed, original coloured registration forms (not copies) and no registration form with any alteration without proper endorsement by the Level Adviser and Faculty Officer would be accepted.

He further said that the university identification cards and evidence of payment of school charges would also be required for the examination.

The deputy registrar advised students who have misplaced their Identity cards to make a request for a replacement urgently while urging them to get acquainted with the rules and regulations guiding the conduct of the examination.

He added that all students and invigilators would be required to adhere strictly to the protocols and guidelines on COVID-19. (NAN)

By Collins Nweze

The African Business Coalition for Health (ABCHealth) and the United Nations Economic for Africa (ECA) have partnered to boost healthcare investments and trade.

The two organisations are to execute the Healthcare and Economic Growth in Africa (HEGA 2) report, and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)-anchored Pharma Initiative.

On the deal, co-founder of ABCHealth, Aliko Dangote, notes: “With the coalition that ABCHealth is building across the continent, responsible business leaders and philanthropists will have a platform that enables them make sustainable, large scale investments in health that transform African economies and people.”

ABCHealth Chairman, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, said: “We are confident of the impact this partnership will bring to bear on the continent. It is our firm belief that with the public and private sectors working together, combining political will with business knowledge, Africa’s health sector can be built to the point where it will deliver affordable health to Africans in an equitable manner.”

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ECA Executive Secretary, Vera Songwe, on the other hand, states: “Investing in health is not just a social good, it also makes a good business case. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, business opportunities in the healthcare and wellness sector in Africa were estimated to be $259 billion by the year 2030, with the potential to create 16 million jobs. The pharmaceutical industry alone was estimated to be US$60 billion in 2020 and is still growing.

The AfCFTA-anchored Pharma Initiative represents lucrative private sector investment and innovation opportunities that will change lives, reduce poverty and contribute to Africa’s inclusive and sustainable economic development.”

On her part, CEO of ABCHealth, Mories Atoki says: “Africa’s health sector is about to experience a significant shift due to the increasing interest that critical stakeholders in both the private and public sectors are showing in terms of enhancing health outcomes and improving livelihoods.”

The partnership, according to ABCHealth and ECA, will drive two primary initiatives, first, to leverage innovation to build resilient national health systems in a post-COVID-19 pandemic and the other; provide the blueprint for the local production of drugs and medical equipment across West Africa.

In a statement signed by the two organisations, it says it is becoming clearer, especially with the outbreak of the pandemic that more private sector involvement is required to support the government’s efforts on health.

The statement states that the HEGA 2 will offer evidence-based policy solutions to strengthen and build resilient healthcare and health infrastructure on the continent.

It further states that HEGA 2 report is a follow up to the HEGA 1 report which ‘analyzed a strategic direction for African countries to better engage with the private health sector to accelerate improvements in health’, in addition to examining Africa’s healthcare challenges and highlighted opportunities for the private sector. The report was launched in February 2019 on the margins of the the 32nd African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government Summit in Addis Ababa.

The partnership, according to the two organisations, is premised on the belief that every African has an undeniable right to quality, accessible and affordable healthcare, noting the relationship between health and economic growth has been effectively demonstrated by the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is now clear that more private sector involvement is required to support government’s efforts on health.

The other initiative, which is the West Africa AFCFTA-anchored Pharma Initiative is the blueprint for the local production of drugs and medical equipment across West Africa. The initiative focuses on strengthening the supply side of West Africa’s health sector by mobilizing investment and capital to develop domestic production of internationally accepted standards and quality. This initiative, according to ABCHealth and ECA, is an extension of the work that ECA conducted in collaboration with the Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD) and selected countries, which involved advocacy for local production of maternal and child care medicines; pooled procurement of same; and ensuring regulatory harmonization and quality standards of medicines and products.