An educational initiative, led by Dr. Olushola Adeborode Kolawole (OAK), a lecturer in Business Data Analytics, Circular Economy, and Entrepreneurship at the University of Bradford, has been unveiled in two Nigerian universities.
The initiative is aimed at creating a robust academic framework that integrates contemporary global concepts such as circular economy and peace-building into Nigerian university education.
Funded by the British Council, the project, officially titled: “Curriculum Development on Entrepreneurship, Circular Economy and Peace-building in Nigeria, aims to transform entrepreneurship, circular economy, and peace-building curricula in two Nigerian universities, Ekiti State University and Babcock University.
Dr. Kolawole said the project reflects the British Council’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development through academic collaboration.
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The university don, who serves as the project lead and an Academic Adviser to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, UK, is working alongside an expert team of academics, including Professor Kenneth Omeje of the International University, United Kingdom, the Project consultant; Dr. Joseph Danquah, also from the University of Bradford and the project’s Associate Lead; Professor Taiwo Owoeye, the institutional lead for Ekiti State University; and Professor Adesoga Adefulu, who leads the initiative at Babcock University.
One of the major milestones of the project was a curriculum workshop held recently in Lagos. The workshop brought together scholars, curriculum experts, and educational stakeholders to co-create a robust academic framework that integrates contemporary global concepts such as circular economy and peace-building into Nigerian university education.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Kolawole emphasised the importance of reimagining education in Africa.
“We must equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools to build resilient economies, promote peace, and champion sustainable development. This project is a significant step toward that future,” he said.
In addition to curriculum development, the project will furnish both Ekiti State University and Babcock University with relevant textbooks and academic resources to support teaching and research in the newly developed fields.
A major textbook project is also underway, scheduled for publication by the end of 2026. The textbook, to be co-edited by Dr. Kolawole and Prof. Omeje, will feature contributions from academics across the African continent, highlighting local case studies and context-specific applications of global theories.
The initiative is expected to have long-term impact by promoting interdisciplinary learning, encouraging sustainable business practices, and nurturing a culture of peace among young Nigerians.
It also aligns with broader efforts to internationalise Nigeria’s higher education system through collaborative knowledge exchange.