By Idowu Adebomi
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector have intensified calls for a renewed commitment to reading culture, discipline, and academic dedication among students. This is part of efforts to address declining educational standards and curb examination malpractice nationwide.
The call was made during the third edition of the Annual School Conference themed “10 Times Better: Mastering Academic Excellence,” held in Ado-Ekiti and organised by the Ife Oladunjoye Empowerment Initiative for secondary school students.
Speaking at the event, an Associate Professor at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Dr. Ifeoluwayimika Bamidele, emphasised the need for a collective national response to the challenges facing the sector. She stressed that tackling examination malpractice requires the active involvement of parents, teachers, government at all levels, and students.
She noted that beyond formal education, parents must reinforce informal learning by instilling discipline and cultural values. She added that students must be guided to develop positive learning habits that will shape their future.
Convener of the initiative, Barrister IfeOluwa Oladunjoye, said the programme was inspired by her early exposure to academic competitions. She noted that the initiative is designed to empower Nigerian students with the right mindset and tools needed to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Also speaking, parents of the convener, Chief Biodun Iwalola and Mrs. Mary Olufunke Aguda, underscored the critical role of guardians in nurturing future leaders. They urged families to prioritise quality education and provide necessary support systems. The duo expressed concern over growing negligence among some parents, warning that such attitudes could undermine efforts to build a better society.
Participants at the conference, including students from various secondary schools, commended the initiative. They noted that the programme deepened their understanding of discipline and commitment to academic pursuits.
The event featured interactive sessions and mentorship engagements. A total of 63 students drawn from 5 schools participated in the programme, which organisers described as a step toward fostering a culture of excellence and responsible learning.