By Felix Khanoba
Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has emphasized the prominent role of education and research in turning around the future of Nigeria and other African nations.
He made the assertion during a speech at the 2024 West and Central African Research and Education Network (WACREN) Conference on Thursday in Abuja.
The minister reaffirmed the importance of research and education in driving sustainable development and highlighted the need for African nations to address challenges in their educational systems.
He underscored the transformative power of collaboration and innovation, reminding the gathering of the need for quality education to ensure equity and inclusivity in facing societal challenges.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of leveraging initiatives like the WACREN conference to strengthen regional ties and build networks that transcend geographical boundaries.
Prof Mamman called for collective efforts to advance education and research in West and Central Africa, recognizing the potential for innovative minds and scholarly endeavours to provide solutions to pressing issues.
He also highlighted the Federal Ministry of Education’s roadmap to transform the educational system of Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing optimism about the future of the country’s education sector and calling for support from stakeholders across the African continent.
On his part, , the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, NUC, Mr. Chris Maiyaki, speaking on the conference theme, “Forging Future High Education and Research Communities,” emphasized the need for proactive, innovative, and forward-thinking approaches to teaching, learning, and research.
Maiyaki encouraged participants to embrace digital transformation, foster collaboration, and cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among students and faculty.
“I encourage all participants to actively engage in sessions, network with their peers and seize the opportunity to contribute their expertise and insight to the discussions, together we can forge stronger, more resilient higher education and research communities that are capable of shaping a brighter future for generations to come. I wish you all to be productive.”
