Professor Yakubu Ochefu, the Secretary General of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, has emphasised that despite collaborative efforts from stakeholders, Nigerian universities continue to struggle with issues such as insufficient funding, lack of manpower, and deteriorating infrastructure. During the 81st Interdisciplinary Research Discourse hosted by the Postgraduate College at the University of Ibadan, Ochefu, a renowned scholar specialising in African Economic History and Development Studies from Benue State University, shared his insights during the meeting.
Also, Professor Kayode Adebowale, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Ayodeji Ogunjuyigbe, the Provost of the Postgraduate College, and various other university officials attended the lecture. During his discussion on “Rethinking the Philosophy of University Education in Nigeria in the Era of Education 4.0,” Ochefu elaborated on the challenges universities face in Nigeria, which include diminishing government support, inadequate and poor teaching staff, lack of instructors, and inadequate compensation for university employees in the country.
Lack of funds and outdated facilities leads to student dropouts.
The scholar also pointed out several issues, such as disheartened educators, both teaching and non-teaching, which negatively affect student performance and satisfaction. Also, problems with outdated facilities, lack of funding for research projects, and curriculum shortcomings result in students dropping out of their programs. Ochefu emphasised the need for governments, agencies, academics, regulatory bodies, the media, and other involved parties to step up and make a difference. He stressed the importance of every stakeholder fulfilling their duties to bring about positive change.
Moreover, collaborations with industry partners should be promoted to provide students real-world experience and ensure academic programs align with industry needs. Technology should be integrated into teaching and learning processes to enhance student engagement and prepare them for the digital era. Also, they should prioritise faculty development and support research initiatives to generate new knowledge and drive innovation. By taking these steps, universities can position themselves as agents for change and play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future in the fourth industrial revolution.
Partnerships between universities and industry will promote innovation.
Increased funding for tertiary institutions will also help address the affordability issue for students. By offering more scholarships, grants, and financial aid, the government can make higher education more accessible to a wider range of individuals, regardless of their economic background. This will help increase enrollment rates and ensure that students can focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress. Ultimately, investing in the future of education through adequate funding will lead to a more educated and skilled workforce, benefiting the country as a whole.
Encouraging partnerships between tertiary institutions and industry can also benefit the economy by promoting innovation and driving economic growth. By collaborating with industry leaders, universities can conduct research that addresses pressing societal challenges and develops cutting-edge technologies. This not only enhances the reputation of the institutions but also provides students with valuable hands-on experience and opportunities for internships and job placements. Through these partnerships, tertiary institutions can produce graduates who are well-equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic development and competitiveness on a global scale.
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Promoting inclusivity and diversity in tertiary institutions benefits individual students and enriches the academic community. By implementing policies that support students from diverse backgrounds, the government can create a more welcoming and inclusive learning environment where individuals feel valued and respected for their unique perspectives and experiences. This, in turn, can lead to a more effective educational experience that encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and the exchange of ideas among students from varying cultural, social, and economic backgrounds.
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