UNILAG VC advocates for all-round development in Africa’s education system

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade Ogunsola, has called for a comprehensive and all-round development of the education system in Africa.

During her speech on Monday at the 54th Convocation lecture,“Decolonizing African Higher Education for Transformational Development” Ogunsola emphasized the need to prioritize not only academic excellence but also the holistic growth of students.

Professor Ogunsola said that a well-rounded education system will equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle the challenges of the future.

In her words,“As part of our contributions towards promoting discussions that would enable a paradigm shift in the way we think it is important that we examine our tertiary education system in Africa because it is where we shape minds for national development.  Africa has lagged behind in development in the comity of Nations. Our current educational system modelled on colonial constructs has not been able to drive the all-round development, revolutionary ideas, and industries that we need despite our population, heterogeneity and other positive demographic factors.

“Facts have also shown that our deficit in these critical areas isn’t due to a lack of intellect or human capacities. What we know is that we constantly seek validation from our colonial past. There is clearly still a lack of confidence in who we are! It does not appear that being African is enough.

“How do we become enough?  There is already a change, we are beginning to ask the relevant questions and recognize that if we are to fully develop and be unique not copycats, we must embrace who we are so we can make the right choices on what parts of other cultures we will adopt. We must rediscover our purpose, trace our heritage, reorientate our minds and develop new policies that embrace our peculiarities and unique flavour. ” She said.

She stressed the need for Nigeria to start thinking positively in order to reach its full potential. She emphasized that our beliefs about ourselves as a nation will determine the choices we make, which in turn will shape Nigeria’s future.Currently, the narrative surrounding Nigeria is predominantly negative.

Ogunsola urged the nation to change this narrative by embracing a positive mindset and taking actions that will contribute to a brighter future.

The Convocation Ceremony also featured an exhibition showcasing the works of both staff and students. This provided an opportunity for attendees to appreciate the talent and creativity within the university community.