Nebo Advocates for Skill Acquisition in Tertiary Education at Oko Convocation Lecture
Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka and ex-Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, passionately called for a comprehensive review of the curriculum in Nigerian tertiary institutions. This came during the 19th Convocation Lecture at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a groundbreaking 19th Convocation Lecture at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka and ex-Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, passionately called for a comprehensive review of the curriculum in Nigerian tertiary institutions. Speaking on the theme "Skills/Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development," Prof. Nebo emphasized the need for making skill acquisition mandatory for every graduate.
Lamenting the lack of emphasis on skills and entrepreneurship training in higher education, Prof. Nebo asserted that combatting unemployment among university graduates requires a fundamental shift towards ensuring that each graduate possesses a specific skill, making them self-employable. He highlighted the historical shift in educational policies away from craftsmanship and technical skills, favoring paper qualifications over practical expertise.
Prof. Nebo stated, "Nigeria decapitated its technological advancements by throwing the City and Guilds certificate away, and killing the original intent of the 6-3-3-4 education system." He criticized the current state of affairs, noting that politics has become the predominant industry in the country, contributing to stunted development.
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Dr. Michael Arimanwa, former Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State, and Chairman of the convocation lecture, echoed Prof. Nebo's sentiments, emphasizing that the nation's development hinges on empowering citizens to be productive and self-dependent rather than prioritizing political positions.
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The Rector of the institution, Dr. Francisca Nwafulugo, reiterated the purpose of the convocation lecture as a platform for cross-fertilization of ideas, aiming to enhance growth in the institution's programs. The call for a paradigm shift in education aligns with ongoing discussions on the role of Nigerian universities in preparing students for real-world challenges.
The event attracted attention from various stakeholders, shedding light on the urgent need to redefine the goals of tertiary education in Nigeria. As the nation grapples with issues of unemployment and underutilization of natural resources, Prof. Chinedu Nebo's plea for a curriculum overhaul may serve as a catalyst for transformative change in the educational landscape.
