Nigerian Academy of Letters Laments Decline in Quality of University Entrants
Jack Acheme, Abuja.
The President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, Prof. Sola Akinrinade, has lamented the decline in the quality of entrants into the Nigerian University System, saying there is the need for urgent intervention to stem the worrying tide.
Prof. Akinrinade made this statement in Abuja-Nigeria at a policy review workshop on “Strengthening the Educational System in Nigeria Through STEAM” organized by the Nigerian Academy of Science, Nigerian Academy of Letters, and the Nigerian Young Academy (NYA) and sponsored by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Contrary to popular belief that the decline is a result of lowered prescribed educational standards, Prof. Akinrinade argued that the standards at the basic and senior secondary levels have increased. However, the root of the problem lies in the implementation of these standards, which have become suspect over the years.
He stressed that the poor performance of Nigerian university entrants spans across disciplinary groups, making it evident that a holistic approach is required to address this multifaceted issue.
Prof. Akinrinade stressed the importance of comprehensive interventions in overcoming these challenges.
“Our problem has to do with the implementation of the standards and capacity which have become suspect over the years. The poor performance transcends the boundaries of disciplinary groups, hence interventions such as ours must be holistic.
“The importance of STEAM education as a critical factor in the sustainable and inclusive development of a country such as ours cannot be over emphasized.
“Properly implemented, STEAM education encourages innovation, reduces poverty, and provides beneficiaries with the appropriate tools to improve their lives and those of others.
“If, through this intervention, we succeed in building alliances for the proper implementation of STEAM education at the basic and senior secondary levels in the country, we will have made a great investment in the lives of future generations of Nigerian youths. The ultimate beneficiary is our dear country.
“I, therefore, challenge every stakeholder involved, not just those present at this programme, to engage with the process.
“This alarming trend must be addressed promptly to ensure a prosperous future for Nigeria’s education system,” he said.
According to him, the workshop aimed to bring together stakeholders from the academia, government agencies, industry leaders, and educational practitioners to brainstorm and develop effective solutions, adding that by incorporating STEAM, it is hoped that a more innovative and integrated approach can be adopted to nurture well-rounded and capable individuals.
The Registrar/Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, represented by Prof. Olutayo Adesina, a visiting professor of history, emphasized the merits of adopting a holistic educational approach that combines scientific knowledge with artistic expression, which will ensure a well-rounded education for the nation’s future leaders.
Prof. Oloyede said a key motivation behind this initiative is the global shift towards the fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by rapid technological advancements.
He added that by fostering a strong foundation in STEAM subjects, Nigeria aims to equip its citizens with the skills required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
“Hence today, we are witnessing the fruitful collaboration between the two leading academies thereby creating a platform for the tripod of Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS), the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL) and the Nigerian Young Academy (NYA).
“The two (2) academies and the youths have now proposed ways to advance STEAM education at primary and secondary educational levels in Nigeria designed to contribute to improving the uptake and quality of education in Nigeria. This will be through the implementation of engaging inquiry-based teaching and learning techniques and other hands-on activities.
“This explains why in addition to funding, JAMB nominates two (2) directorate staff and a professor to represent the board on the programme.
“JAMB chose to sponsor and participate in the project, not only because of the integrity and competence of the two academies but also because the youths, for which STEAM is primarily meant, are part of the initiation, planning and implementation of the project.
“We call on all who plan educational projects and curricula to always involve the students and the youths to enrich the programme and synchronize it with prevailing realities,” he said.
