Stakeholders have emphasized the urgent need for educational reform and human resource development in Nigeria.
This they said at the launching of the books titled, "Leadership and Educational Reforms in Nigeria" and "A festschrift in Honour: Rethinking Human Resource Development" by Dr Bulus Danmagaji, coinciding with his 70th birthday celebration in Abuja.
Philip Hayab, a Research Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, underscored the pivotal role of education, evoking Nelson Mandela's famous words: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
Hayab highlighted the books' exploration of not only the philosophical aspects of leadership but also the pressing need for educational reform and human resource development in Nigeria.
He pointed out the country's slow pace of development and advocated for a comprehensive approach to address existing challenges.
Emphasizing effective leadership as a catalyst for driving educational reforms and fostering human resource development, Hayab discussed the disparity between Nigeria's educational curriculum and the practical skills demanded by the workforce, emphasizing the necessity to bridge this gap.
Moreover, the books shed light on the detrimental effects of past policies and corruption on Nigeria's education and human resource sectors. Hayab urged concerted efforts to dismantle these obstacles and pave the way for a brighter future.
He concluded by stating that "Leadership and Educational Reforms in Nigeria" and "Rethinking Human Resource Development in Nigeria" serve as a clarion call for stakeholders to take decisive action in propelling Nigeria towards sustainable development and prosperity.
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Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, echoed the sentiment that education serves as a catalyst for development and enhances leadership quality within society. He emphasized the need for reforms in Nigeria's education system to improve leadership quality and foster growth.
Former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sarah Alade, emphasized the importance of capital development for progress, stressing the crucial role of education in all aspects of life.
She advocated for increased investment in education to ensure universal access for all children.
Dr Danmagaji, the author of the books, reiterated that education is the foundation of all endeavors in life.
He highlighted the need for visionary leadership committed to education to ensure a brighter future for Nigerian children.
