During a recent convocation lecture at Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) in Ado Ekiti, prominent leaders called for significant reforms in Nigeria's education system to ensure it meets the country's developmental needs. Aare Afe Babalola, the university's Chancellor, and Obiora Okonkwo, the Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, highlighted the urgent necessity for educational changes that align with the evolving demands of society.

In his lecture titled "Functional Education and the Nigerian Project: Strategic Human Capital Development for National Renewal," Okonkwo emphasized the importance of adapting education to reflect the realities graduates face after leaving school. He stated that functional education should be a priority, urging institutions to develop curricula that focus on practical skills, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

"If higher education is to become the principal driver of national renewal, what is required is a comprehensive and coordinated reform agenda that deliberately aligns education with the developmental aspirations of the Nigerian state," Okonkwo said. He stressed the need for collaboration between universities, industries, and government to ensure that academic programs are relevant to national priorities and the emerging labor market.

Okonkwo also advocated for the revitalization of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the restoration of the strategic importance of polytechnic education. He argued that education should be treated as a productive national infrastructure, with investments not only in classrooms but also in laboratories, workshops, and digital resources.

In his address to the graduating students, Okonkwo encouraged them to apply their knowledge to solve societal problems rather than merely seeking employment. He challenged them to become innovators and value creators, stating, "Let your education become action, your knowledge become competence, your competence become value, your value become service, and your service become a contribution to the transformation of your society."

Aare Afe Babalola echoed Okonkwo's sentiments, stressing the need for the Federal Government to review university curricula to better prepare students for future opportunities. He expressed concern over the approval process for private universities, suggesting that stronger regulations are necessary to maintain educational quality.

"The way private universities are approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) gives a lot of concern. We need to define what to do to ensure that quality is not compromised," Babalola remarked. He underscored the critical role of education in employment, entrepreneurship, and poverty reduction, stating that without education, individuals would struggle to secure jobs or create opportunities.

The call for educational reform comes at a time when many stakeholders in Nigeria are advocating for a system that not only imparts knowledge but also equips graduates with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. As the nation grapples with various socio-economic challenges, the emphasis on functional education could play a pivotal role in shaping a more resilient and capable workforce for the future.