Stop Enrolling Candidates By Proxy,NECO Warns
Mohammed Shosanya
The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, says it is remodeling its Foreign Post Graduate Scholarship scheme to incorporate a tracking system to follow the progress of its scholars after graduation.
Addressing scholars of the Commission studying in various universities in the United Kingdom at Coventry University, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the tracking system will make the scholarship scheme,to be a cutting-edge innovation in skills and knowledge development in the Niger Delta region.
Seledi Thompson-Wakama
Director, Corporate Affairs, NDDC quoted this in a statement on Saturday.
Ogbuku said:“With the tracking system, the Commission will build a database of the more than 5,000 scholars who have benefited from the scheme in the 18 years since its inception. This will enable it appraise the impact of the scheme in the development of the region’s human capacity pool and also provide insight to the Commission on post scholarship interventions.
“The tracking system is part of the innovation being introduced to make the scheme relevant to the technological needs of the Niger Delta. The other innovation is limiting of the scheme to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine) courses.”
Ogbuku was part of the Commission’s monitoring team, led by the Chairman of the Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, to evaluate the performance of the Commission.
The team also included the NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye; the Executive Director Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde and other Directors of the Commission.
The Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board advised the beneficiaries to make the best use of the opportunity given to them to enhance their knowledge for the benefit of the people of the Niger Delta region.
He observed that previous beneficiaries of the scholarship programme, set enviable standards for the current set to emulate, stating: “It is remarkable that 11 of our scholars graduated with distinction in Coventry University earlier in the year. Their outstanding performance confirms the transparent process through which the beneficiaries were selected.”
Besides,the NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, said that the scholars had a duty to justify their inclusion in the programme, noting that the Foreign Post-Graduate Scholarship Scheme, which was started in 2010, was meant to equip Niger Delta youths with advanced training and skills.
Iyaye stated that the NDDC was pursuing improved investments in the educational sector as part of plans to ensure that the youths were gainfully employed.
The NDDC Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr. George Uzonwanne, disclosed that out of 56,000 applicants for the 2024/2025 programme, only 200 were selected through a transparent electronic examination process.
He noted that the NDDC sponsors an average of 200 scholars for postgraduate studies in institutions across the world every year. The scholars are expected to acquire the requisite knowledge and skills to further the development of the Niger Delta region on their return.
Mohammed Shosanya
Total Energies Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited,has distributed 251 rechargeable solar reading lamps to students of host communities in Rivers who are preparing for Secondary School Certificate Examination.
Presenting the lamps, Managing Director of the company, Mr Matthieu Bouyer, reaffirmed the organization’s readiness to develop the host communities, especially the welfare of children at the grassroots.
The items were delivered on Friday at Akabuka in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers state.
Represented by Mr Godspower Nwachukwu, General Manager, Community Affairs, Bouyer said that the gesture was part of efforts to boost education in local communities.
According to him,the benefiting schools – Government Secondary School, Akabuka and Community Secondary School, Oboburu – were randomly selected through a credible voting by the donors.
He added:”Total Energies remains committed not only to the provision of cleaner, cheaper and more accessible energy, but also to the sustainable development of its host countries and communities, especially the welfare of children.
”The company is particularly passionate about this as it aligns with our sustainable development drive, especially levers 4 and 5, which highlight the importance we place on the sustainability of the communities we serve and the way we care for the people.”
Responding,Mr Uti Uche,Principal, Government Secondary School, Akabuka, commended the company for the donation and advised beneficiaries to use the facilities to enhance their reading abilities.
One of the beneficiaries, Oki Emmanuel, who is the Head Prefect of Government Secondary School, Akabuka, thanked the donors for their kindness and promised to make good use of the facilities
Mohammed Shosanya
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the Energizing Education Programme (EEP) during the 2024 EEP Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum (SEF) organized by the Nigeria Electrification Programme (NEP).
The three-day, high-level event brought together key stakeholders including Vice Chancellors, Chief Medical Directors, Directors of Physical Planning/Works, and Legal Officers from EEP beneficiary institutions, along with representatives from the World Bank (WB), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and other partners.
Themed “Empowering Education through Sustainable Energy: Collaborative Pathways for the Long-term Success of the Energizing Education Programme (EEP),” the forum focused on strategies for ensuring that solar hybrid power plants deployed across the EEP beneficiary universities remain sustainable, fostering educational advancement and institutional growth.
Launched by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) in 2018, the Energizing Education Programme (EEP) was designed to provide reliable power supply to 37 federal universities and 7 affiliated teaching hospitals across Nigeria.
Under the three phases of the EEP, 24 federal universities and 4 teaching hospitals have already been included:
These institutions are being equipped with solar hybrid power plants, collectively capable of generating over 100MW of clean energy.
This forum also aims to address concerns surrounding EEP Phase I, emphasizing the need for urgent interventions to enhance the sustainability of the power plants deployed during this phase.
The forum aimed to clarify misconceptions about Phase I, particularly at institutions like Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Through this forum, REA has taken a substantial step to ensure the continued success and sustainability of these projects, and any future negative media reports on EEP Phase I will be viewed as unfounded, given the agency’s commitment to resolving these issues.
“The challenges faced by Phase I institutions have been acknowledged, and we have deliberately started implementing measures to address them, ensuring sustainability across all phases,” said Abba Abubakar Aliyu, MD/CEO of REA.
“Our mission remains clear—to ensure that no institution is left behind in this transformative journey.”
During the forum, the REA showcased its hands-on approach to resolving the issues faced by Phase I beneficiary institutions.
Through interactive discussions and in-depth presentations, the agency provided clarity on the EEP Sustainability Model, developed with the collaboration of the United Kingdom Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF).
The Model addresses both technical and operational concerns, ensuring that the solar power plants are managed and maintained efficiently.
Speaking at the event, Olufemi Akinyelure – Head, Nigeria Electrification Programme re-emphasised the importance of the forum “This forum marks a critical turning point for the Energizing Education Programme going forward.
The discussions, agreements, and key takeaways that have taken place over these three days will guide us in ensuring that we proffer solutions as quickly as possible to these beneficiary universities.”
A major highlight of the forum was the signing of a Collaborative Agreement between REA-NEP and the beneficiary institutions.
This agreement, which now applies to Phases I, II, and III, outlines the roles, responsibilities, and financial commitments necessary to sustain the solar power plants.
The sustainability and business case models for EEP Phase I were especially emphasized to correct any previous oversights and ensure the alignment of all phases with the long-term sustainability framework.
“Children in emergency situations have a right to quality education like every other child, yet education in emergencies continues to be critically underfunded and under-resourced. Education is lifesaving and should not be seen as a second phase of a humanitarian response,” – Wongani Grace Taulo, UNICEF Regional Education Adviser for Eastern and Southern Africa.
It is a basic right for every child to receive an education that is both inclusive and of high quality. However, in Africa, there are nearly 46 million children of school age who do not attend school. Those who face the greatest challenges, particularly those impacted by conflict and climate crises, often lack access to education the most.
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, of the 244 million children globally between ages 6 and 18 who are not in school, more than 98 million—or over 40%—reside in sub-Saharan Africa.
This includes significant numbers in Nigeria (20.2 million), Ethiopia (10.5 million), the Democratic Republic of Congo (5.9 million), and Kenya (1.8 million). Currently, sub-Saharan Africa exhibits the highest levels of educational deprivation worldwide, with an alarming figure of 90% of children unable to competently read or comprehend a basic text by age 10.
Children entrenched in areas plagued by conflict or climate-related emergencies are disproportionately impacted by this learning deficit, suffering the highest rates of educational shortfall in the region.
Over half of all children worldwide affected by crises are in sub-Saharan Africa. These vulnerable children should be prioritized for extensive educational support to aid their learning and rehabilitation; however, many are unfortunately left without such assistance.
It is widely recognized that education is a critical component for socio-economic development, significantly contributing to the improvement of individual lives and community welfare. Education equips people with crucial skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary for personal development and societal progress.
The benefits of education extend past scholastic achievement, advancing economic growth, alleviating poverty, promoting social fairness, bettering health conditions, stimulating innovation, encouraging environmental preservation, reinforcing community connections, and supporting self-actualization.
From an economic standpoint, education is a driving force for expansion and improvement, boosting the productivity and innovative capacity of the labor market. Individuals with education are more likely to land better-paying careers, foster technological progress, and spearhead business initiatives, which in turn enriches overall economic performance and consistency.
Additionally, education is crucial in reducing poverty, as it arms people with vital skills to escape persistent deprivation.
Quality education not only broadens job prospects but also provides individuals with essential insights that influence their choices regarding health, dietary habits, and family planning, thus enhancing the general quality of life.
Education acts as a leveler, providing opportunities for people from all walks of life to thrive and contribute to society. It encourages social harmony by teaching acceptance and respect for differences and enables individuals to partake in meaningful discussions and unite on community matters.
By granting knowledge and skills, education empowers people to make choices, speak up for themselves, and influence their futures. It reduces inequalities related to gender, ethnicity, or income through accessible educational opportunities.
Moreover, an educated public is more likely to take part in civic duties, comprehend their rights, and actively engage in democratic processes, promoting a fair and just society.
Access Bank Plc one of Africa’s premier financial institutions, continues to reaffirm its dedication to education and community development through its annual UNICEF Charity Shield Polo Tournament. During the 2024 event, Access Bank announced the construction of 60 additional classrooms in Maraban Jos, Kaduna.
This initiative underscores the transformative power of sports in driving community upliftment.
The tournament, which attracted dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and philanthropists, highlighted how sports can serve as a powerful catalyst for social good. This year’s announcement builds on the Bank’s commendable efforts in 2023, where they commissioned 30 blocks, each comprising two classrooms, during the same event.
Upon the project’s completion, Access Bank aims to double the enrolment capacity of the Access Bank Fifth Chukker School. This expansion is poised to significantly enhance educational opportunities, building on the school’s success in providing quality education and social welfare to approximately 14,000 children to date.
The Polo Tournament has also, in recent years, been extended to include South Africa, with a partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation forming a foundation for scaled impact across the continent. Access Bank’s initiatives include scholarships, mentorship programs, and providing a comprehensive educational experience for underserved students.
Continuing with similar initiatives, Access Bank, in collaboration with the Temitayo Awosika Help Foundation, launched the Back to School Project to lessen financial pressures on parents and guardians of children with sickle cell disease. This noble cause has provided over 12,000 underprivileged students with vital scholastic materials.
These materials comprise textbooks essential for thorough learning, backpacks for the efficient and safe transport of items, notebooks designed for effective note-taking and homework, along with an array of stationery crucial for everyday learning tasks.
Through this provision, TAHF aims to promote educational opportunity and equity, ensuring that children from all economic backgrounds have the essential instruments to thrive academically.
Access Bank, in partnership with The Bethesda Child Support Foundation, introduces the “SHE Reads” initiative, an ambitious project designed to enroll, empower, and transform the lives of 5,000 out-of-school young women in Nigeria over the next five years.
This initiative focuses on a one-year intensive literacy program to teach reading and writing, establish literacy centers across various states, and address gaps in numeracy and financial literacy. Additionally, it includes health workshops to ensure overall well-being.
By enrolling an initial cohort of 200 young women, the program aims to provide them with the tools needed for personal and professional growth, fostering independence and self-worth, with the support of local communities, educational institutions, health organizations, and corporate partners.
Continuous monitoring and evaluation will ensure the program’s effectiveness and sustainability, ultimately contributing to a brighter future for the participants.
Furthering its efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children, Access Bank partnered with Kidpreneur Africa to launch “Project Educate Me.”
This initiative aims to empower internally displaced and underserved youth with essential literacy, financial, digital, and life skills. Targeting vulnerable populations in Adamawa, Katsina, and Borno states, Project Educate Me will support children in specific local government areas.
By collaborating with stakeholders, the project seeks to directly benefit over 150,000 children, ensuring positive, lasting impacts on their lives and futures.
Access Bank Ghana’s partnership with CHAINT AFRIQUE on the “A Sandal More” project, an initiative focused on upcycling used car tires into eco-friendly, durable school sandals. This innovative project addresses the dual needs of promoting quality and inclusive education for all children by providing sandals to underprivileged children, and promoting environmental sustainability by repurposing waste materials.
The project was launched in 2023 supported 1,000 school children in Ghana with sandals made from tires. The initiative has impacted over 400 communities and involved skills acquisition programs for youth and entrepreneurs to build capacity on recycling old tires, with 1,000 individuals trained.
Collection hubs were provided in various locations for the collection of old tires from customers and employees.
Building on its success in Ghana, Access Bank Nigeria partnered with FREEE Recycle to launch a transformative initiative in Oyo State.
The program collected and recycled 706 discarded tires from the Oyo environs through FREEE’s network of aggregators. The recycled tires were utilized to produce 2,500 rubber sandals, benefiting school children in various communities across Oyo State.
This initiative not only addressed critical waste management challenges by promoting recycling and reducing carbon emissions but also enhanced access to education by providing footwear to school children.
Additionally, Access Bank and FREEE Recycle were committed to empowering local communities through skills development, ensuring sustainable contributions to FREEE Recycle’s manufacturing operations and fostering environmental stewardship across the region.
In Zambia, many girls encounter formidable challenges due to the considerable distances they must traverse to reach school. These distances often pose a barrier to their education, especially in rural areas like Kasama.
Recognizing this obstacle, Access Bank Zambia has made a significant contribution to the Strong Girls Strong Zambia Campaign by donating 60 bicycles. These bicycles play a crucial role in enhancing educational opportunities for vulnerable girls.
By providing a means of transportation, Access Bank Zambia is helping to overcome the logistical hurdles that often prevent girls from attending school regularly and punctually. This initiative not only ensures safer and more efficient travel but also empowers girls to prioritize their education, thereby fostering their academic success and personal development.
Access Bank is actively addressing educational barriers, empowering vulnerable populations, and promoting sustainable development. By focusing on literacy, empowerment, and community engagement, Access Bank not only transforms individual lives but also contributes significantly to the socio-economic advancement of communities.
As we all know, education is a fundamental human right and it is our obligation to ensure no child is left behind.
Mohammed Shosanya
The Federal Government has directed universities, polytechnics,and other tertiary institutions in the country to offer direct admission to candidates living with disabilities who sat for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and met the minimum admissible scores for their chosen programmes without post-UTME.
Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu gave the directive on Tuesday in Abuja during the first Africa Regional Conference on Equal Opportunity of Access to Higher Education (ARCEAHED).
He said the move was necessary to ensure equal access to education for all, particularly persons living with disabilities.
He added: “JAMB also sought and obtained approval at the 67th National Council on Education meeting to exempt candidates with disabilities from Post/UTME Screening. I, therefore, reiterate, as already announced, that all tertiary institutions in Nigeria are to offer admissions to all candidates with disabilities who possess minimum admissible scores into the programmes of their choice after writing UTME.
“This initiative, together with the ambitious target to enrol 825,000 students with disabilities cumulatively over the next five years, demonstrates Our unwavering commitment to realizing equal access to education.
” It is also important that I inform this gathering that the DOTS policy takes into consideration the unique needs of the vulnerable groups vis-à-vis their needs for quality education and assurance that every child, including those with disability challenges, will have adequate opportunities to acquire adequate skills to realize their full potential later in life.”
Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, advocated the need for the establishment of a support centre for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to facilitate access to education.
He proposed that the centre, equipped with the necessary technology and support, should have at least one branch in each geo-political zone of the country, under the auspices of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).
“The inaugural ARCEAHED presents a significant opportunity for JAMB and education stakeholders to gain insights on advancing inclusive education.
“Education remains the cornerstone of self-actualization, and it is our collective duty to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has access to higher education,” he stated.
Mohammed Shosanya
The Oyo State Government has banned warned head teachers in public schools to stop holding meetings during official hours.
The Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran,handed down the warning while monitoring schools resumption in Ibadan on Tuesday.
He explained that the move was to ensure strict adherence to the unified school timetable in all public schools in the state.
“This is a warning to all head teachers and teachers to desist from holding meetings during school hours”.
“Henceforth, any primary school head teacher who indulges in such act will be severely dealt with,” he said.
He implored unions and associations within the basic education sub-sector to adhere to this policy, as the new session begins.
He also directed school heads to keep to the policy.
In another development, Dr. Nureni Adeniran has reiterated the Board’s commitment to leverage technology to ensure advancement in the education system in Oyo State.
He stated this during a 3-day capacity building on use of BESDA Attendance Monitoring Information System (BAMIS).
He encouraged participants to learn from the process, saying “we have brought you together to develop your skills on the use of BAMID APP”.
Dr. Adeniran applauded the Universal Basic Education Commission for conceiving the BAMIS APP in the day-to-day official schedules as a strategy to improving performances with respect to input, output punctuality and regularity, monitoring and evaluation of learning activities.
He acknowledged that the Board has invested a lot of money and time on the programme due to its importance to the delivery of Basic Education, a core mandate of the Board.
Mohammed Shosanya
The Edo State Government has postponed till further notice, the resumption of all public and private schools in the State, earlier fixed for Monday, 9th September 2024,
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This was conveyed in a statement signed by Ojo Akin—Longe, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, For: Honourable Commissioner for Education.
The statement reads, “The Edo State Government hereby announces the postponement of the resumption of all public and private schools in Edo State, originally scheduled for Monday, 9th September 2024, until further notice.
“An official statement from the government has directed that schools remain closed due to the tension arising from the recent increase in fuel prices and the challenges faced by parents and guardians.
“The government urges parents, guardians, and caregivers to monitor the activities of their children and wards closely, given the current situation and the rising tension caused by the fuel price hike’.