The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering quality education despite operating in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments.
This resolution was made at the 17th Annual National Conference held at Baze University, Abuja, from 19th to 20th November 2024.
Themed Embracing Transformational Education: Pathways Amidst Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) Operating Environments and Circumstances, the conference addressed the challenges confronting private schools and proffered transformative strategies for resilience and sustainable educational development.
The event, presided over by the National President, Hajia Samira Jibir, PhD, had over 1,000 participants and featured dignitaries, including the Chairman of NAPPS Nigeria Board of Trustees, Dr. Said I. Mijinyawa; the Honourable Minister of Education, represented by Dr. Achebe; and the Pro-Chancellor of Baze University, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed. Other notable attendees included representatives of governors, education board directors, and stakeholders from local and international organisations.
Key issues discussed included the impact of global crises, technological advancements, and economic uncertainties on education delivery. Participants noted that private schools face fluctuating policies, funding challenges, and limited access to innovative resources. These constraints, coupled with outdated curricula and inadequate teacher training, have contributed to a widening skills gap among students.
Resolutions adopted
In light of these challenges, the conference adopted the following resolutions:
1. Policy Advocacy: NAPPS resolved to engage the government on policy reforms, seeking alignment with global best practices and advocating for more inclusive and flexible policies to support private schools.
2. Teacher Training: Continuous professional development for teachers was emphasised to equip them with 21st-century teaching skills.
3. Addressing Teacher Shortages: The association called for the establishment and prompt accreditation of more private teacher training institutions to bridge the skills gap in the education sector.
4. Technology Integration: Participants advocated for adopting affordable digital tools for teaching, learning, and school management to address the digital divide.
5. Representation in Education Boards: NAPPS reiterated the need for representation on the boards of NABTEB, WAEC, and NECO, to ensure private school stakeholders contribute to critical decisions.
6. NAPPS Bill Passage: An appeal was made to the National Assembly for the speedy passage of the NAPPS Bill, which aims to bolster private school operations.
7. Corporate Social Responsibility: Members were encouraged to sponsor at least one student per local government chapter to reduce the population of out-of-school children.
8. Curriculum Innovation: A call was made for a flexible and adaptive curriculum incorporating critical thinking, environmental sustainability, financial literacy, and digital skills.
9. Collaboration: The association urged private schools to form clusters, share resources, and foster partnerships with government bodies and international organisations.
10. Mental Health Support: Schools were encouraged to build mental health support systems for teachers, students, and proprietors to enhance resilience.
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The conference also launched the NAPPS Journal of Education and Administration to promote academic research and practical insights for school owners.
During the event participants urged the federal and state governments to create an enabling environment for private schools, including providing grants and tax reliefs.
School proprietors were encouraged to embrace innovation and collaboration, while teachers were advised to commit to continuous learning to prepare students for the demands of the modern world.
The conference honoured distinguished individuals for their meritorious service to humanity and significant contributions to the education sector.
The 17th NAPPS National Conference underscored the importance of transformational education in preparing students for an uncertain world. With resolutions centred on policy reform, collaboration, and technological integration, private school proprietors pledged to overcome challenges and create a sustainable pathway for impactful education in Nigeria.
The communique was signed by Dr Kayode Adeyemi, National Secretary, and Hajia Samira Jibir, PhD, National President. It was drafted by a committee of nine members, including Dr Philip Terfa Iorhena, Bar Stephen Abitogun, and Mrs Adeola Remi-John.
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