Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, emphasizing its crucial role in equipping Nigerian youth with future-ready skills. Speaking at a recent event organized by the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN), the Minister stressed the need for a shift towards impactful technical and vocational education that aligns with the country’s evolving job market and demographic realities.
Dr. Alausa highlighted a growing concern: while universities continue to churn out graduates, many struggle to secure relevant employment. He pointed out that vocational training, particularly in sectors like healthcare, offers a more sustainable path. “If we train 1,000 nurses today or more, they will still have jobs waiting for them,” he stated, underscoring the urgent need for skill-based education.
The Minister also called for a radical transformation in Nigeria’s education system, advocating for digital learning, lifelong education, and technology adoption. He argued that merely constructing school buildings would not address the nation’s educational challenges. “With our growing population, what we need is to educate our youth effectively and embrace technology,” he asserted, urging STAN to develop digital learning platforms similar to the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
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Education, he emphasized, should go beyond physical infrastructure and focus on real-world impact. “It’s not about what happens inside the buildings but what happens next,” he remarked, pushing for innovative learning models that ensure students acquire practical skills for a competitive global economy.
Professor Ben Akpan, a key figure in STAN’s Governing Council, echoed the Minister’s sentiments and called for official backing for the proposed STEM center. He provided insights into the center’s structure, its operational framework, and its potential to revolutionize science and technology education in Nigeria.
As part of the event’s proceedings, Professor Akpan formally invited Dr. Alausa to STAN’s Annual Council Meeting, set to take place at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. In recognition of his contributions to STEM education, the Minister will also be honored with the prestigious STAN Fellowship Award, a testament to his efforts in driving educational reform in Nigeria.