Ex-Minister Gana, Duke, Okecha Make Case for Education Sector  Reform

Ayodeji Ake
 

The former Minister of Information Prof. Jerry Gana, former Governor of River State, Donald Duke, and Prof. Steve Okecha have called for a state of emergency on the education system in Nigeria. 

Speaking at the recent unveiling  of the book written by Prof. Steve Okecha, titled ‘The Nigerian University System: Downswings and Way Forward’, Prof. Gana lamented that  the Nigerian university system is deteriorating and needs swift intervention for research and innovations.  

“Creating an environment in the university that can create inter-development research is important. We must celebrate creative thinkers to sustain them. Research and innovation are fundamental. To sustain academic excellence, institutions must prioritise research activities across disciplines.   

“Balancing student engagement and teaching activities to ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their potential. Unfortunately, in our universities today, the infrastructure is overwhelmed. Classrooms designed for 50 students now accommodate over 200 students.” 

He urged the government and stakeholders to implement the ideas of the book to transform the education system positively.    

“We hope that some of the proposals by the author of this book will be taken seriously and implemented because education is critical. The rapid way to transformation is through education,” he said.  

In his address, the author, Prof.  Okecha, expressed disappointment in the Nigerian education system and said Nigerian universities used to be one of the most celebrated institutions in Africa and beyond.  

“In the past, Nigeria’s universities were globally recognised. Nigeria no longer provides a conducive environment for teaching and research. If we can’t provide adequate power and water, then we shouldn’t be talking about university.   

“The book examines the concept of education, university autonomy, and academic freedom, the genesis of the Nigerian university system, the funding of Nigerian public universities, and degrees for sale in Nigerian universities,” he said.     

The former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, who was  the Chairman on the occasion, stressed  the importance of youths commitment to development.   

“The energy of youths when properly channeled is an incredible asset and when not properly channeled, it’s an incredible force for disaster. We need to train our youths properly in terms of history and patriotism,” he said.