The Vice Chancellor of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Prof. Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, has decried the invasion of Nigerian public universities by political scavengers.
He stated that the invasion would further deplete the meagre resources accruing to the universities and equally decimate the values and principles of productive learning across public tertiary institutions in the country.
Prof. Okolie made this disclosure on Friday while delivering the maiden convocation lecture of Hezekiah University, Umudi, Imo State, on the topic: “Paradigm Shift, Soliloquy, and Fungibility of Stemming the Tide of Education Lullaby in Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria: Opportunities Missed and Paths Not Taken.”
He further emphasized that the infiltration of political actors into the education sector is evident through the proliferation of Acting Vice Chancellors in most public universities, adding that it is a symptom of failed education policies, deepening what he termed “policy soliloquy and lullaby.”
Prof. Okolie also lamented the appointment of political figures who lack the technical expertise to manage the education sector, arguing that this has led to consistent policy failures over the years.
He called for a national summit of major stakeholders to critically evaluate the challenges plaguing tertiary education in Nigeria and chart a new course for sustainable development. He also advocated for the deregulation of curricula to promote regional specialties, thereby granting tertiary institutions the autonomy to focus on education that is relevant to local populations.
Prof. Okolie raised concerns over the contradiction of dwindling funds for tertiary institutions despite the increasing number of universities across the country.
Highlighting the need for greater investment in education, he stated:
“The salience of education as a tool for unlocking knowledge, imbuing relevant and creative skills, generating positive inner motivations for change, and unleashing critical conditions for human capital transmutation cannot be underestimated. Education also plays a vital role in managing the environment and preserving it for future generations.”
Prof. Okolie concluded by stressing the significance of education in achieving sustainability:
“Among others, education is an essential tool for achieving sustainability. Education at all levels can shape the world of tomorrow, equipping individuals and societies with skills, perspectives, knowledge, and values to live and work in a sustainable manner.”
