Education is the foundation of societal transformation — Olateju Akintayo
In this exclusive interview, Olateju Akintayo, a visionary leader in education, shares her inspiring journey of pioneering a school during the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses her innovative approach to learning, the role of AI in shaping Nigeria’s education system, and the urgent need for policy reforms. As a strong advocate for leadership development and inclusivity, she also offers valuable insights for aspiring female leaders and outlines her long-term vision for transforming education in Nigeria.
Can you tell us about your journey in the education sector and what inspired you to pioneer a school during the COVID-19 pandemic?
My journey in education started with a deep passion for leadership, youth development, and improving learning outcomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, education was severely disrupted, particularly for children in underserved communities. Seeing this crisis firsthand, I knew something had to be done. I leveraged my expertise in school administration, leadership training, and curriculum development to establish a school that provided structured, adaptive, and inclusive learning opportunities despite the global crisis. This experience reinforced my belief that education is the foundation of societal transformation and must be resilient in the face of challenges.
What makes your approach to education and leadership development unique?
My approach focuses on innovation, inclusivity, and leadership cultivation. I strongly believe that education must evolve to meet the needs of the 21st century. This is why I integrate AI-driven learning, personalized educational strategies, and leadership training into my models. My work emphasizes mentorship, practical skill-building, and equipping students with problem-solving abilities to thrive in today’s competitive global landscape.
Also, I am committed to developing globally competitive schools in Nigeria, ensuring that students are not just learning but are being prepared to lead, innovate, and excel on an international stage.
You’ve also been involved in AI-driven education. How do you see AI shaping the future of learning in Nigeria?
AI has the power to revolutionize education by making learning more personalized, accessible, and efficient. In Nigeria, where we face challenges such as overcrowded classrooms and a lack of resources, AI can provide adaptive learning solutions, real-time feedback for students, and better teaching tools for educators.
I advocate for policies that integrate AI and leadership development into Nigeria’s education system to ensure our students are globally competitive. With AI, we can bridge learning gaps, improve engagement, and tailor education to individual students’ needs, making quality education more inclusive and effective.
What do you see as the biggest challenges in Nigeria’s education sector, and how can they be addressed?
The three major challenges are: Lack of infrastructure and resources—Many schools still struggle with basic facilities, making it difficult for students to learn in a conducive environment. Outdated curriculum—Nigeria’s education system needs to evolve to foster innovation, leadership, and real-world problem-solving skills that prepare students for the modern workforce. Limited access to quality teacher training—Educators require continuous professional development and exposure to global best practices to effectively teach and inspire the next generation.
To address these challenges, we need: Government-private partnerships to invest in modern infrastructure, ensuring schools have the necessary facilities for effective learning. A curriculum overhaul that integrates leadership, AI, and 21st-century skills, making education more relevant and future-focused. Ongoing training for teachers, equipping them with technology, leadership programs, and global teaching methodologies to enhance their impact in the classroom.
My work focuses on these areas, and I am actively working towards establishing a globally competitive school in Nigeria that embodies these principles.
As a woman in educational leadership, what challenges have you faced, and what advice do you have for aspiring female leaders?
Women in leadership often face gender bias, limited opportunities, and societal expectations that can make career progression difficult. However, I have always believed in persistence, competence, and impact-driven leadership. I have overcome challenges by staying focused, continuously developing my expertise, and building a strong support network of mentors and peers.
My advice to aspiring female leaders is to embrace leadership training early and seek mentorship; be resilient and proactive challenges will come, but your impact is what defines you; continuing learning education is dynamic, and staying informed is key to leading effectively. Women must take up more leadership roles in education because we bring unique perspectives that foster inclusivity, empathy, and transformative leadership.
What are your long-term goals?
My long-term goal is to establish a globally recognised school in Nigeria that integrates international best practices, AI-driven education, and leadership training. I also aim to influence policy reforms that improve teacher education, school administration, and curriculum development in Africa and all over the world. I also seek to collaborate with global experts, allowing me to implement high-impact policies and programs in education.
How do you see your work aligning with Nigeria’s broader vision for educational development?
Nigeria’s long-term development depends on a strong, globally competitive education system. My work aligns with this vision by building leadership capacity in students and teachers, ensuring they are equipped to innovate and lead. I also advocate for policy changes that integrate AI, technology, and leadership training into schools. Additionally, I am committed to developing high-quality learning environments that meet global standards. With the right support, Nigeria can become a hub for world-class education, and I am committed to making that a reality.
