By Tunde Oyekola
Ilorin, Nigeria – October 15, 2024 – The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged for a thorough review of Nigeria’s education policies to address the challenges facing the tertiary education sector. His remarks came during the maiden convocation ceremony of Ojaja University in Eiyenkorin, Kwara State, where 183 graduates, including 21 first-class students, were celebrated.
While acknowledging the progress made in education, the Ooni emphasized the need for more robust policy interventions and effective implementation to reverse the decline in tertiary education. “Crafting effective policies is not the issue; the challenge lies in their relevance, appropriateness, and execution for the 21st century,” he stated.
The monarch highlighted the significant funding and investment required to maintain a world-class institution, calling on individuals, corporations, and philanthropists to support Ojaja University through grants, scholarships, and infrastructure development.
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, represented by his deputy, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of skill development in Nigeria’s economy, especially in light of high unemployment and a growing youth population. He noted that private universities are crucial in producing a skilled workforce and urged them to adopt innovative educational approaches.
Ojaja University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Jeleel Ojuade, reported that the institution offers 13 fully accredited programs and has plans to expand further. The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto and other dignitaries, highlighting the event’s significance in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
