Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori on Tuesday, said the 2nd higher education summit will provide the platform to reinvent and reinvigorate the funding landscape for tertiary institutions in Delta State.
Gov. Oborevwori stated this while declaring open the 2nd Delta State Higher Education Summit in Asaba.
The governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, noted that the theme of the summit: “Alternative funding for tertiary institutions” is most apt, saying that it will help participants to share ideas, explore innovative solutions and foster a spirit of collaboration among educators, policy-makers, and students.
Gov. Oborevwori noted that the state government’s aim is to reinvent and reinvigorate the funding landscape for tertiary institutions in the state.
He added that the challenges facing higher education were not peculiar to governance, saying that government response can be distinctively innovative and transformative.
“As we look around this lecture theatre, we see a diverse tapestry of individuals who represent the future of our society. From distinguished scholars to motivated students and dedicated educators, each of you play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of higher education.
“Together, we stand on the threshold of change, with an opportunity to redefine our approach to learning and development,” the governor stated.
Gov. Oborevwori noted that his administration has witnessed remarkable strides in addressing the challenges facing higher institutions in the state, while it has fostered a renewed commitment to accessibility, equity and quality in education.
“You are all witnesses to the giant strides in the history of our tertiary institutions in the state; four universities, three polytechnics and two colleges of education, yet there is still much work to be done.
“Our tertiary institutions are not just centres of learning, but engines of social mobility, economic development and human capital transformation. Yet, we cannot ignore the increasing financial challenges confronting these critical institutions.
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“The idea for this summit is therefore not just apt, but timely as it reflects our commitment to innovative solutions. As a state, we recognize that sustainable education funding requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond conventional government allocations.
“Our state’s unique economic landscape demands a revolutionary approach to educational funding and with our robust industrial sectors ranging from petrochemicals, agriculture, and emerging technology, we have unprecedented opportunities to create innovative educational financing models,” Gove. Oborevwori added.
The governor who observed that the world is evolving at an unprecedented pace with technological advancements reshaping industries, said global challenges such as climate change, social inequality and health crises require innovative solutions.
He stressed that it is imperative that the state higher education system is not only responsive to these changes, but also anticipatory and equips students with the skills, knowledge and critical thinking necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Gov. Oborevwori urged stakeholders at the summit to engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of higher education.
