Modibbo Adama University Hosts 30th Inaugural Lecture: Prof. Okoronka Decries “Sorry State” of Physics Education

Modibbo Adama University, Yola held its 30th Inaugural Lecture titled “The Sorry State of Physics Teaching and Learning in Nigeria: What Remedies?” recently, delivered by Prof. Okoronka Ugwumba Augustine, who presented a critical assessment of what he described as a deepening crisis in Nigeria’s physics education system.

The lecture was well attended by dignitaries, including the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Iliyasu Audu. Also present were principal officers, members of Senate, staff, students, and other invited guests. 

The event witnessed the Professor of Physics Education, Prof. Okoronka Ugwumba Augustine, warned that Nigeria’s persistent underinvestment in science education is slowing national development and weakening the country’s technological capacity.

At the centre of his lecture, Prof. Okoronka highlighted the issue of funding between 2015 and 2022. He noted that Nigeria invested approximately ₦7.61 trillion in education about 10 percent of its ₦76.96 trillion total national budget within the same period. 

However, annual allocations to education have consistently remained below 8 percent, far below UNESCO’s recommended benchmark of 26 percent.

“The first challenge here is our failure as a nation to invest enough of our intellectual and financial resources to build a strong knowledge base,” Prof. Okoronka said. 

He further stated that the destiny of the nation lies directly in the hands of teachers, which is closely linked to the quality of students under their tutelage.

Among other challenges, he identified a lack of strategic thinking and planning aimed at raising future core scientists, physicists, and physics educators who will drive scientific, technological, and economic growth. 

Beyond funding and policy gaps, Prof. Okoronka criticised divisions within the physics academic community, describing it as “a house divided against itself.” 

He warned that tribalism, ideological camps, and parochial tendencies among professionals threaten the effective training of future physicists.

He also raised concerns about the treatment of double-honour students, particularly those studying physics education, noting that some are left emotionally traumatised and discouraged due to negative experiences with lecturers. 

“Some colleagues who are experts in their own rights say the least encouraging things. It leaves most of the double-honour students disillusioned,” he lamented.

Highlighting the strategic importance of physics, the professor emphasised that the discipline underpins nearly all technological advancements from electricity and telecommunications to computing, aerospace, nuclear science, and modern medicine.

 “The knowledge of physics is instrumental to technological and economic growth across the globe,” he said, urging government and institutions to take urgent corrective steps.

In a personal reflection, Prof. Okoronka recounted his humble beginnings. Born on 4th August 1962 in Kafanchan, Kaduna State. From teaching at King's College, Lagos in the 90s to earning his PhD at the University of Ibadan and attaining full professorship in 2018 at Modibbo Adama University, Yola with a sound distinguished academic career. 

Quoting educationist William Arthur Ward, he reminded educators: “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.”

The lecture concluded with a standing ovation as Prof. Okoronka urged students to believe in themselves, work hard, and strive for excellence.

While reading the citation of the inaugural lecturer, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Iliyasu Audu commended the professor for an excellent presentation. 

The Chairman of LAPC, Prof. Abraham Okolo, thanked all participants for gracing the occasion and wished them a safe journey to their various destinations.

A highlight of the occasion was the presentation of a plaque to Prof. Okoronka Ugwumba Augustine in recognition of his excellent lecture, followed by group photographs.