Unilorin VC Tasks FG on Brain Drain

Hammed  Shittu in  Ilorin

Vice Chancellor of University of Ilorin (Unilorin), Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, yesterday urged the federal government as a matter of urgency to rescue the nation’s education sector from the current brain drain that has hit the system.

Speaking in Ilorin during the 37th and 38th convocation ceremonies for the awarding of degrees/diplomas to over 13,000 students for 2020/2021 set, Prof. Egbewole stated that the ugly development has continued to affect the growth of university education and other tertiary institutions in the country.

He said that, “Education sector in Nigeria, particularly higher education, has suffered avoidable setbacks in the recent past leading to brain drain.

“Our institutions need more hands to deliver on its mandates and funds for serious academic works, researches and collaborations for desired outputs.

“I urge the government at all levels that a state of emergency be declared to rescue the system.”

Egbewole, however, said that “We want to assure Mr.  President that we will not rest on our oars for advancement and cutting-edge researches aimed at development and community engagement.”

The Vice Chancellor also used the occasion to call on the graduating students to be agents of positive change in the society.

He said that, “Today marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and perseverance. As we celebrate your achievements, I want to remind you that this is not the end but the beginning of a new chapter in your lives.

“You are part of a generation that has the power to shape the future and make a positive impact on society. You have been equipped with the knowledge, skills and values necessary to navigate the complexities of the world and create positive change.”

Earlier, the convocation lecturer and professor of History at the Department of History, University of Texas, Austin, United States of America, Professor Toyin Falola, urged members of the society not to allow new innovation and technology to change their values.

The lecturer, who spoke on the theme: ‘Modernity, Modernisation  and Values’ said that the society is now polluted with various beliefs and actions but this must not change their values so as to protect the society.

He also called on the society to stay away from any actions that may hinder their socio wellbeing so as to move the African continent forward.