Stakeholders have expressed growing concern over the declining credibility and relevance of Nigeria’s education system, calling for urgent reforms to restore confidence and improve outcomes.
The concerns were raised at the 45th anniversary lecture and Annual General Meeting of the 1981 set of Victory High School in Lagos, where education experts and alumni examined the current state of the sector.
Speaking at the event, Babatunde Sosina, Chief Responsibility Officer of Information Builders Nigeria, said the gap between past and present education standards reflects not only declining quality but also a loss of trust in the system.
According to him, academic certificates no longer guarantee success, as many graduates now require additional skills, exposure, or even luck to secure meaningful employment.
He stressed that restoring credibility in education would require increased funding, improved infrastructure, and a deliberate shift towards practical and skill-based learning.
Sosina advocated curriculum reforms that prioritise vocational education, agriculture, and ICT, noting that such changes would enhance employability and promote self-reliance among graduates.
He also called for better teacher training, improved remuneration, and continuous professional development to strengthen teaching quality across schools.
In addition, he urged the government to enforce stronger quality assurance systems, particularly in rural areas, to ensure uniform education standards nationwide.
The education expert further emphasised the need for value reorientation through moral instruction and civic education to nurture responsible citizens and future leaders.
Earlier, President of the alumni association, Kayode Abiodun, disclosed that the group had formalised its structure through registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission and the establishment of a cooperative society aimed at supporting members’ financial growth.
He noted that the association had contributed to infrastructure development in the school, including renovation of facilities and replacement of damaged equipment, while outlining plans for additional projects.
Participants at the event agreed that without sustained investment and systemic reforms, Nigeria risks further erosion of trust in its education system and diminished value of its academic qualifications.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.