BOUESTI Confers Honorary Doctorate on Governor Mbah for Educational Reforms

Governor Peter Mbah has been awarded the prestigious Doctor of Humane Letters (DHL) degree by Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ekiti State, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education and leadership in Nigeria.

The honorary degree was conferred on Mbah during the maiden convocation ceremony of the state-owned university in Ikere-Ekiti over the weekend. The event celebrated his administration’s unwavering commitment to transforming the education sector in Enugu State through innovative policies and experiential learning models.

Speaking at the event, Governor Mbah emphasized that while the benefits of investments in education take time to materialize, his administration remains committed to prioritizing quality education. He reiterated that his government’s education reforms are driven by the belief that the best legacy for future generations is to equip them with knowledge and skills that prepare them for global competitiveness.

“This award is a reminder that there is no greater honour than service. It is an inspiration to recommit to the governance values that underpin our modest achievements in Enugu State. These values are shaped, particularly, by the conviction that education is the best legacy to bequeath to the emerging generation,” Mbah stated.

Governor Mbah has consistently allocated over 33 per cent of Enugu State’s annual budget to education. He highlighted that these investments have yielded remarkable results, notably in the ongoing construction of 260 Smart Green Schools designed to provide experiential learning and problem-solving skills rather than rote memorization.

Reflecting on BOUESTI’s motto, “Learning for Self-Reliance,” Mbah urged governments across Nigeria to embrace innovative solutions to address funding challenges in education, especially in light of declining international financial support.

Despite its relatively recent establishment in 2020, BOUESTI has made significant strides in fostering a conducive learning environment, Mbah noted. He commended the university’s dedication to human capital development and acknowledged its growing influence in advancing science and technology education.

The governor also lauded Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for his sustained reforms and investments in education. Addressing the graduating students, Mbah encouraged them to take pride in their alma mater and maintain strong ties with the university as alumni.

The Chancellor of BOUESTI, Chief Wole Olanipekun, emphasized that the honorary degree is typically reserved for distinguished lawyers, a category in which Mbah has excelled. He praised Mbah’s entrepreneurial acumen and his transformative leadership style, describing him as a visionary leader reshaping governance in Nigeria.