allAfrica.com: Nigeria: Why We Need to Restructure Education

Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos state has called for the restructuring of education in order to free our country from poverty and underdevelopment.

He expressed determination of the government to turn education around in the state through massive investment.

Speaking at the unveiling of the Touch the Future 2008-2012 Capital Campaign for Babcock University College of Health/Medical Sciences and Teaching Hospitals project last Thursday at the Civic Centre, Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, Lagos, he said that the benefit of education is bringing change to a nation and "remains the pillar of technological growth," adding, "education is key to meaningful future from one generation to another, and for social reformation."

According to the governor, "our education should reflect the technological and social needs of our nation. In Lagos, we are investing heavily on education."

But he regretted the underdevelopment of the country despite the abundant resources available.

"It's unfortunate that after several years, our human development index is still one of the lowest in the world. We need educational restructuring so that our graduates be more creative and create jobs for themselves. Our education should be qualitative."

Represented by Mr. Ben Akabueze, Commissioner for Planning, Governor Fashola said that the provision of functional education is the goal of his administration.

"Functional education is our goal in Lagos state. There is massive turn-around of infrastructure in public schools. We are aware of our responsibility."

He described the Babcock University multi-billion naira medical project as "a welcome development for all others to follow, and determined to impact on the nation for change," saying," it's a wake up call for other institutions, and we agree with this Babcock University idea."

The institution was assured of Lagos state government support as it shared the vision of providing world-class medical facilities for the country.

He promised that government will be making a reasonable contribution to this "worthy cause".

In his own message, Governor Oni of Ekiti state, represented by the Commissioner for Education and Technology, Commended the initiative of Babcock University, which deserves support and assistance; especially when the Vice Chancellor is an indigene of Ekiti.

"About 60% of the academic staff come from Ekiti state which has produced a large number of professors and academics. The government will render assistance in several other ways for the realisation of the project. For now, all Ekiti students in Babcock University are offered scholarship henceforth", declared the commissioner.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Sijuwade said Babcock University is a pace setter in Nigeria with excellent education service delivery.

"I've always been a friend of this university and appreciate your invitation. Excellence is not the destination, but the direction; Babcock is known for continuous development towards better standard, dotted with milestones, global standing, research and community service."

Speaking through Olori Barrister Ladun Sijuwade, the foremost Yoruba traditional ruler, said the College of Health/Medical Science and Teaching Hospitals projects are "worthy of support by all Nigerians," urging, "all present, captains of industry, to make the dream come true."

He praised Otunba Michael Olasubomi Balogun, Chairman of Babcock University Capital Campaign Advisory Board for his efforts, describing him as a "great philanthropist," Professor Kayode Makinde Vice Chancellor, "whose shadow will never grow less" and Chief Richard Akinjide, for their commitment, sacrifice and dedication, wishing the Advisory Board, God's blessing.

Other members of the board, are Dr. Allison Ayida (co-chairman), Chief Newton Jibunoh and Olorogun (Dr) Sunny Kuku.

In his address, Otunba Balogun said his only objective as the chairman of the sponsoring Board for the Capital Raising Campaign is to stress that this life can only be worth our while if we leave the world a better place than we found it.

"The University particularly is making a statement that all of us as private individuals, institutions should have considerable satisfaction in helping to build a better educated and healthier community beyond our immediate environment."

He explained that in addition to the medical schools, the University will set up a second-to-none Bio-Medical Research Centre that would concentrate in research into diseases that have African and other populations-in-development as their primary victims, namely, Mutated strains of Malaria, Sickle Cell Anaemia, Fibroid in Woman, HIV, Autism, etc.

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