Tertiary education needs rescue, says Ooni

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called for a holistic review of education policies to address contemporary challenges.

The monarch made this call on Saturday during the maiden combined convocation ceremonies of Ojaja University, Eiyenkorin, Ilorin, Kwara State.

The university recorded 21 first-class graduates out of the 183 who graduated at the event.

The Ooni acknowledged the progress made in the education sector over the years but stated that much more needed to be done to rescue tertiary education from a steady decline.

“While it is true that a lot has been done and is still being done to rescue Nigerian tertiary education from a steady decline, the truth remains that a lot more needs to be done within the framework of relevant and appropriate policy interventions, and most importantly, sound and flawless policy executions.

“No doubt, we all know that crafting a beautiful policy (if only on paper) is not a problem in Nigeria. The real issue lies in their relevance, appropriateness, timing, and tracking for the 21st century.

“If Nigeria will turn things around for good as we desire and take its appropriate place among the leading educational nations globally, then we need to have a comprehensive review of our policies, policy-making processes, and policy implementation paradigms. That is what can change the narratives.”

The monarch, who has been the chancellor of the university since 2016, acknowledged the challenges in running a world-class tertiary institution.

“My experience has revealed that running a world-class tertiary institution requires significant funding and capital investment. It is a huge challenge to build an environment conducive to learning and character development in an ever-changing world.

The goalposts keep shifting. While I acknowledge this is daunting, it is equally doable.

“I want to call on all well-meaning Nigerians and foreigners alike, Friends of the House of Oduduwa globally, corporate entities, individuals, and philanthropists to please lend a helping hand by instituting grants, scholarships, awards, and endowments, donating books and other learning support aids, building structures and infrastructure, providing technical support, and sponsorships to Ojaja University to support me in achieving our set vision and mission.

“ Let me add that even though the journey has started, it is a long haul. However, with God, your support, assistance, and encouragement, we will accomplish our destination in the shortest possible time.”

Delivering the convocation lecture, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, represented by his deputy, Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru, noted that the country’s future economy lies in growing skills, not in oil.

“I am mindful of the fact that our country is currently faced with numerous economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, a skills gap in the workforce, and a growing population of young people who need to be educated to compete and find a niche in a globalised world.

“As the nation strives for economic resilience in this era of globalisation, the role of education, particularly higher education, becomes crucial. Private universities in Nigeria have emerged as vital contributors to the production of a skilled workforce that can adapt to the evolving demands of the economy.

“One area where private universities can truly take the lead is in their focus on technology-driven and industry-relevant education.

“Private universities, which are not usually encumbered by some of the constraints faced by public institutions, have the opportunity to be bold and pragmatic in their approach. They can experiment with new teaching methodologies, integrate interdisciplinary studies, and create learning experiences that transcend traditional academic boundaries.”

Earlier in his speech, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Jeleel Ojuade, gave the total number of graduands as 183 across various faculties, with Emmanuel Johnson from the microbiology department emerging as the best overall graduating student.

The VC lauded the commitment and vision of Oba Adeyeye for Ojaja University, stating that the institution currently runs 13 fully-accredited courses across faculties, with plans already in place to start more.

The event was graced by eminent personalities, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, who also delivered a convocation lecture.

Other attendees included NUC Executive Secretary, Chris Maiyaki, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is’haq Oloyede, various vice-chancellors, traditional rulers, and numerous academics.