UK Mayor Advocates Strategies to Boost Nigeria’s Education Quality at Igbinedion University Convocation

Abigail Katung, Lord Mayor of Leeds City, United Kingdom, has called for a multidimensional strategy to improve the quality of education in Nigeria. She made this call during the 22nd Convocation Lecture at Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, on Tuesday, 26th November 2024.

In her lecture titled "Education for National Impact," Katung highlighted systemic challenges such as inadequate funding and outdated curricula that hinder the development of Nigeria’s education sector. She emphasized the need for a more robust and updated education system, advocating for UNESCO-recommended budgetary provisions, transparency, and effective resource utilization to enhance educational outcomes.

Katung pointed out that education remains the most powerful tool for societal transformation, particularly in a nation like Nigeria, which has a youthful population in need of empowerment. She called for equitable access to education, stressing that it should not be determined by factors such as gender, class, or geography. 

She also advocated for a curriculum overhaul to place more focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), as well as entrepreneurship and skills acquisition, to reduce unemployment and address the national economic challenges.

The Lord Mayor further recommended the infusion of e-learning into Nigeria’s educational system and urged for greater investment in tertiary education and research that addresses national needs. She also suggested fostering public-private partnerships and collaborating with traditional and religious leaders to promote educational quality.

Addressing the graduating students, Katung encouraged them to view academic success as a collective responsibility rather than a personal achievement. She urged them to pursue their dreams and learn from failure, viewing it as an opportunity for growth.

In his remarks, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University, announced that 856 students graduated for the 2023/2024 academic session, comprising 718 undergraduate and 138 postgraduate students. Among the graduates, 45 earned first-class degrees, 288 earned second-class upper degrees, and 225 received second-class lower degrees. Additionally, 160 students graduated with unclassified degrees in Medicine & Surgery and Pharmacy. 

Prof. Ezemonye urged the graduates to use the knowledge and skills they acquired at the university to contribute to society and create a world that reflects the university’s values.