Education
Conditions for Appointment of Professors MUST Change – FUTO’s Prof. Pantami Saga Explained Differently
Obviously, the Triple Helix model of Innovation that the National Universities commission (NUC) is advocating and promoting, and which is the current global best practice, is strange to a lot of people.
The courage of FUTO and Pantami to practically actualize this in our University system needs to be encouraged and applauded, NOT criticized ignorantly by even the so-called experts in academia.
In concepts such as the Knowledge Economy, the Triple Helix model of innovation seeks to promote interactions between the Academia, industry and Government in order to Foster Economic and Social development. Therefore, the model is conceived such that the 3 different bodies collaboratively play their roles to ensure that innovation is fostered and development eventually occurs.
Those following this development therefore, would not be surprised when recently, NUC is promoting that Professors in the Academia should go on their Sabbaticals to Industries or Government Regulatory agencies like NUC, Tetfund, NNPC, RMRDC etc., instead of the old practice of going to other universities. Similarly, University Councils and Senates are being encouraged to appoint as Tenure, Visiting or Adjunct Professors from highly experienced professionals in the Industry or Government, to come into the university from time to time, to share industry or policy experiences with the students. This, it is envisaged, would go a long way to promote innovation by giving students additional perspectives. Time it was when Professors of building Engineering, Robotics, Computer science, Business Administration, History, or any discipline for that matter were mere theorists with practical expertise. Working collaboratively with experienced industrial or Government policy practitioners is thus envisaged to change all that and if students are added to the equation, they would be better for it.
I am therefore not surprised that Pantami, as the minister of the Digital Economy and one of the Champions of the Knowledge Economy in Nigeria is taking a lead in this direction. Further, that this is happening with a University of Technology, the story cannot be more comprehensive.
Reading Pantami’s acceptance letter and noting that he was placed on a different Salary scale and to which he declined to receive payment and also confirming that the President was aware of his appointment, should ordinarily have made people curious, to find out what was going on, instead of the ignorant condemnations, very uncouth masturbations that greeted the situation.
We Nigerians have severally challenged the Nigeria education system to be more innovative and asked for introduction of new perspectives to improve our graduates to make the economy better. We have condemned our academic system as declining or becoming more outdated and sometimes, you read that our graduates are unemployable because they lack relevant industry or policy experiences.
Thus, as much as we always clamour for change and are not willing to change or accept changes in the way things are done, surely change can only continue to elude us or remain a mirage.
We are not still in the stone age, when in Nigeria, Professors were only teachers using old text books or sat underneath trees, dreamed up data and got them published in International journals of everything for everyone, at Samaru or Nsuka or Ibadan printing press.
We are in the 21st century when an undergraduate project has become a product that makes life easier for millions of people globally.
Our understanding of Research must expand, as Innovation, which will change lives may not necessarily be the product of only a Professor’s moulded ideas inside the walls of a University alone.
We must recognise that collaboration, synergy and multi disciplinary thinking are the best approach to practical innovation. To that extent therefore, it becomes pertinent that we modify our definition of who a Professor is, to also include professionals in the industry and in Policy positions in Government that have lots of experience to share (teach) to students, to improve our economy.
Academia must open its doors to accommodate experts of industry and experienced policy makers, as co-teachers, fellows, or Visiting Professors. The world is changing fast, and so should our perspectives and our definitions.
Consequently, based on these premises, and as promoted by NUC the regulatory body for University Education in Nigeria, my opinion is that Isa Pantami is eligible to be appointed as Professor and FUTO deserves our accolade for taking the bold step.
Others should follow and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) needs to be told clearly to stop dabbling into issues outside their mandates. They are not remotely responsible for appointment of, or promotion to Professor in the university system.
As even when committees are set up to review conditions of appointment or promotion of Academic staff, the process starts in the Senate to draw members, goes to management Committee before being sent to the Governing Council for approval.
Aliyu Mohammed Paiko is a Professor of Nutritional Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Dept. of Biochemistry, IBBUL.
Education
South East Educators Conference (SEEC) 2025 Set to Transform the Future of Education in Nigeria
“…SEEC 2025 will equip every stakeholder to not only adapt to change—but to drive it,” says Barr. Doris Chinedu-Okoro.
A new wave of educational transformation is coming! The highly anticipated South East Educators Conference (SEEC) 2025 is set to take place from May 2nd to 3rd, 2025 at the prestigious Nike Lake Resort, Enugu, under the powerful theme: “Advancing Education: Innovation, Leadership & Transformation.”
Barr. Doris Chinedu-Okoro, Convener of SEEC, said this year’s edition promises to be the most impactful yet, gathering a dynamic blend of visionaries, thought leaders, innovators, educators, and policymakers to drive conversations, collaborations, and commitments that will shape the future of education in Nigeria and beyond.
Keynote Speakers
The Convener said the keynote speakers include; His Excellency, Senator Liyel Imoke – former Governor of Cross River State and Founder, the Bridge Leadership Foundation and a statesman passionate about youth development and sustainable leadership, is among the pious keynote speakers.
Also, “Mr. Paul Onwuanibe – CEO, Landmark Group – a trailblazing entrepreneur whose insight into innovation and infrastructure development will challenge educational stakeholders to think big and build boldly”.
Other Speakers include;
Rotimi Eyitayo – CEO, Teammasters & Education Business School, Chinoso Ogbogu – Co-Founder, Sabi Writers, Rhoda Odigboh – Education Thought Leader & Regional Director Kizazi, Dr. Joy Isa – President Isa School Of Education & Educational Strategist, Fisayo Oludipe – Education Consultant & Leadership Coach, and Susan Charles – Learning Innovator, Moyo Lifematics – Mathematics Educator & Content Creator, Eben Odetola Israel – EdTech Advocate, Mr. Ogunsola – STEM Educator, and Yinka Ogunde – CEO, Edumark Consult. “…and many more voices of influence across Africa’s educational and leadership landscape!”
Highlights to Look Forward to:
“Gala Night – A celebration of brilliance, impact, and community; Movie Night – A night of reflection and bonding through storytelling; Educator Awards – Honoring those who go beyond the call of duty to inspire change; Breakout Sessions & Masterclasses – Practical, hands-on learning experiences, and Exhibitions & EdTech Showcases – Featuring tools, innovations, and solutions for the future-ready educator.
“SEEC 2025 is not just a conference. It is a movement—a call to action for educators, school owners, government stakeholders, parents, and youth advocates to come together and reimagine the future of learning, teaching, and leadership in Africa.
“We believe education is the engine of national development. SEEC 2025 will equip every stakeholder to not only adapt to change—but to drive it,” says Barr. Doris Chinedu-Okoro, added.
To participate at SEEC2025, register via the link and secure your slot. www.southeasteducatorsconference.com.
Follow the conversation online using #SEEC2025 and tag us @southeasteducationconference on all platforms. For sponsorship, media partnerships, or exhibition opportunities, contact us at [email protected]
… As Mbah canvasses higher admission quota for ESUT Law Faculty
The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says the state government will soon commence the construction of an ultramodern auditorium for the Augustine Nnamani campus of the Nigerian Law School at Agbani in Enugu State, stressing his administration’s readiness to support the campus to excel as a citadel of legal education in Nigeria.
Mbah made this known when he received a team of the Council of Legal Education at the Government House, Enugu, on Monday commending the Council for its work in guiding and nurturing teaching and learning in the Law School.
The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, equally canvassed for an increase in the admission quota of the Faculty of Law, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, to create more opportunities for the increasing population of the state’s indigenes and residents wishing to study Law.
“Quite frankly, the expansion in the number of campuses of the Law School makes their management and coordination more challenging, but that is inevitable because of the increasing number of our brothers and sisters, who seek to become lawyers.
“I want to assure you that with respect to the commitment of our government and our state to enhance the facilities at that Law School, Agbani, the date for the groundbreaking ceremony for the auditorium will be communicated to you sooner than you would imagine.
“This is also an opportunity to request that you consider increasing the admission quota of the ESUT Faulty of Law because of the teeming number of our people that want to study law. On our part, we are determined to put all necessary infrastructure and human capital in place to make it one of the best Law faculties in the entire country because in Enugu, we prioritise education,” the governor stated.
Speaking, the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN, commended the Governor Mbah Administration for its commitment to the development of legal education in the country.
“Sometime ago, the governor hosted a delegation of the management saff of the Augustine Nnamani campus of the Law School here at the Government House. On that occasion, the governor sought to know the urgent needs of the Campus at Agbani. Upon hearing the request, he, on behalf of Enugu State Government, offered to build an ultramodern auditorium for the Nigerian Law School at Agbani.
“In addition to that, he also offered to appeal to Pinnacle Oil and Gas to build a Moot Court for the Augustine Nnamani Campus as part of his infrastructural support to the institution.
“So, we made it a point that before we set out to other places, including a visit to other law faculties that require accreditation, our first port of call would be to come to the Government House to pay our respect to the government and people of Enugu State to say thank you for the offer the state government has made,” Ngige said.
Stakeholders at the Values for Daily Living International [VDLI] inaugural annual conference have recommitted to continuing efforts in promoting ethical values and moral principles, inspiring positive change in individuals and communities worldwide.
The VDLI inaugural annual conference convened by Sandra Ani, was a resounding success, bringing together students, parents, scholars, educators, and community members to engage in meaningful discussions and celebrate achievements in value-based education.
The conference, held at the at The Parliament Hall, Post Primary School Management Board, Enugu State, attracted more than 1000 participants from various sectors, including education, business, healthcare, and government online and on-site.
The theme, “Take It Back: Building Today for a Greater Tomorrow” resonated deeply with attendees and speakers alike.
Prof. Peter Ndubueze Mbah (Ph.D.), the Hon. Commissioner of Education, Enugu State, in his keynote address emphasized the importance of integrating core values into every aspect of life, from personal interactions to professional endeavors.
He highlighted the need for a collective effort in nurturing a society grounded in respect, empathy, and honesty.
Throughout the conference, participants engaged in a series of interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions.
During the panel session, discussants reiterated the role of the church, school, and home in restoring values to society was a key topic of the panel discussions.
This interactive session provided deep insights into shared responsibilities in moral value restoration.
These narratives provided a powerful reminder of the impact that integrity and compassion can have on society.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a renewed commitment to fostering values in their personal and professional lives. “This conference has reignited my passion for ethical leadership and community service,” said one participant. “I leave here today inspired and ready to make a difference.”
Sandra Ani, the convener, in her address expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and sponsors for their contributions to the success of the conference. “Together, we have taken a significant step towards building a more compassionate and ethical society. I am confident that the conversations and connections made here will continue to inspire positive change in our communities.”
The event served as a platform for open dialogue and interactive learning, fostering a sense of shared responsibility in nurturing moral values within the community.
Other notable speakers included Hon. Chibueze Ofobuike, the chairman of Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State; Barr. Doris Chinedu-Okoro, CEO of Evergreen Group; and Mr. David Folaranmi, an advocate of drug abuse and addiction recovery.
Essay Competition
Highpoint of the conference includes an essay contest which focused on senior secondary school students from both government and private schools on the topic: “What are the common reasons why teenagers might be tempted to experiment with drugs, and what strategies can they employ to resist peer pressure and make healthy choices regarding substance use?”
The contest attracted over 500 entries, which were narrowed down to 100 students for the second stage, and finally, 20 students made it to the finals.
During the conference, the top 20 essay writers were invited to receive an award of excellence. The top three essay winners were each given an award plaque, a gold medal, a certificate of excellence, and a cheque of 200,000 NGN for the second runner-up, 300,000 NGN for the first runner-up, and 500,000 NGN for the overall winner.
These students came from Anambra State, Osun State, and FCT Abuja, respectively. The remaining 17 students, representing Benue State, Kwara State, Ireland, Ebonyi State, and Enugu State, were awarded a gold medal and a certificate of excellence each.
Brand Ambassadors
All top 20 essay contest finalists were appointed as brand ambassadors of VDLI. Their faces will appear on billboards in five states of the country. As ambassadors, they are expected to uphold and promote the moral values advocated by VDLI in their various environments.
Awards and Recognitions
All speakers were presented with recognition awards from the organization. The Hon. Commissioner of Education received an award for his profound impact on enhancing education; Hon. Chibueze Ofobuike was recognized for empowering youths and transforming communities; Barr. Doris Chinedu-Okoro received an award for her outstanding contribution towards advancing education; and Mr. David Folaranmi was acknowledged for his efforts in creating awareness on drug abuse and helping people overcome addiction.
Special Presentations
A notable presentation on the role of the girl child in upholding Nigeria’s values and ethics was made by Akpem Comfort Msuurshima from Jewel Model Schools, Makurdi, Benue State.
Additionally, a cultural display by students of Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Enugu, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
About Values for Daily Living International Conference:
Values for Daily Living International (VDLI) is an organization dedicated to the global promotion of ethical values and moral principles. Founded in 2019, VDLI has been at the forefront of inspiring positive change in individuals of all ages. Through innovative programs, impactful initiatives, and engaging resources, VDLI strives to encourage individuals to lead more fulfilling lives, guided by morals such as honesty, integrity, and respect.
The mission is to use the teaching of values to change minds, thereby transforming lives.
VDLI’s vision is to cultivate a society deeply rooted in strong moral values, ensuring individuals contribute meaningfully to society.
The Organization emphasizes values such as Integrity, Leadership, Compassion, and Respect guide all aspects of VDLI’s work, from program development to community engagement.
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