Nigerian educators have called for urgent reforms to revitalise the country’s Higher Education system in 2025. Speaking with The PUNCH, notable figures in academia, including Prof. Oladapo Ashiru and representatives of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), highlighted the pressing need to modernise the curriculum, enhance research funding, and address infrastructural deficiencies. They emphasised that aligning educational practices with global standards and local needs is critical to fostering Innovation and economic growth.
Prof. Ashiru, a distinguished academic and Foundation President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, outlined seven transformative measures to enhance higher education. He advocated for a Curriculum overhaul to integrate global trends and local socioeconomic demands, along with increased research funding to address key sectors such as agriculture, health, and technology. He also stressed the importance of creating streamlined systems for accessing research grants, promoting performance-based remuneration, and encouraging international collaboration through exchange programmes and joint research initiatives.
Policy reforms and upgraded Infrastructure to support advanced education.
Other academic leaders echoed these sentiments, focusing on systemic challenges. ASUU’s national president, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, urged the government to prioritise resolving lingering union disputes and improving staff welfare. Meanwhile, Prof. Laja Odukoya highlighted the need for policy reforms to redirect 25 per cent remittances from internally generated Revenue back to universities, alongside subsidising Electricity costs to ease operational burdens. Vice-President of the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Dr Salaam Abdussobur, proposed a national discourse to define a new Education policy tailored to Nigeria’s needs.
Moreover, educators also highlighted the pressing need to upgrade Infrastructure to support advanced teaching and learning. Prof. Ashiru highlighted the value of modern laboratories, digital resources, and virtual learning tools in creating an effective academic environment. He noted that outdated facilities hinder innovation and limit the quality of education provided. Additionally, he called for greater autonomy for universities, enabling them to adapt swiftly to global standards while addressing local challenges. These measures, he argued, are essential for equipping students and staff with the tools needed to excel in an evolving academic and professional landscape.
Sustainable education funding will drive national growth and Innovation.
The broader implications of a robust education system on national development are immense. Education serves as a cornerstone of progress, shaping technological advancements, economic stability, and societal transformation. Addressing systemic gaps can unlock the potential of Nigeria’s youth, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to local and global challenges. A stronger education sector would also enhance the nation’s competitiveness, equipping graduates with the skills required to excel in emerging industries and tackle complex problems.
However, achieving these goals requires sustainable education funding. Private Sector partnerships and diversified funding sources can reduce dependence on government budgets while fostering innovation and accountability. Collaboration with industries can ensure that research delivers practical solutions, with universities generating income through consultancy services and intellectual property. Incentives for private investment, such as Tax breaks, could encourage deeper engagement, creating a framework where research directly supports Economic Growth and national development.
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As Nigeria enters 2025, implementing these reforms could redefine its educational landscape. A collective effort by policymakers, educators, and stakeholders is essential to transform academic institutions into centres of excellence. Modernising curricula, upgrading infrastructure, and fostering innovation will not only strengthen the education system but also position the nation for sustained growth. With the right focus and determination, Nigeria can create an education sector that meets global standards and addresses domestic priorities, ensuring a brighter future for its citizens.