Governor Oyebanji Calls for Academic Revolution: Embrace 21st Century Courses
In a passionate plea, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has urged higher education institutions across Nigeria to undergo a profound transformation by revising their curriculum to prioritize 21st-century relevant courses. This bold call to action aims to empower students to become forward-thinking solution providers and job creators.
Governor Oyebanji delivered this resounding message during a recent gathering where he hosted the Governing Council and Management team of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti (BOUESTI). The meeting was led by the institution’s Chairman, Prof Patrick Aina.
In a statement released by Mr. Yinka Oyebode, the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, the essence of the Governor’s appeal was highlighted. He emphasized the pressing need for academic institutions to offer courses that not only impart theoretical knowledge but also practical skills capable of addressing contemporary global challenges.
Governor Oyebanji underscored the importance of preparing students to navigate the ever-changing dynamics of the global landscape and adapt to a job market that is rapidly evolving. He called upon universities to realign their educational offerings with the demands of the modern workforce.
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Furthermore, the Governor maintained that restructuring the curriculum and expanding course offerings to incorporate 21st-century subjects would provide a golden opportunity to contribute to national economic growth. This contribution would be realized through the production of graduates equipped to drive innovation, foster entrepreneurship, and generate employment opportunities.
While commending the Governing Council and the University’s management for their exemplary academic performance and the prevailing peace within the university, the Governor urged them to actively engage and leverage public-private partnerships to foster comprehensive development, harness expertise, and promote innovation within the institution.
Governor Oyebanji expressed his concern about the relevance of courses offered by educational institutions, emphasizing the need for accredited courses to consider the future and produce students who are highly relevant in the 21st century.
In response, Prof Patrick Aina, Chairman of BOUESTI’s Governing Council, praised the Governor for his exceptional performance and numerous achievements during his one year in office. He expressed gratitude for the initiation of the Ikere-Igbara Odo Road project, recognizing its substantial benefits for students and staff at the University.
Professor Aina also used the occasion to update the Governor on the University’s progress since he assumed office as the Chairman of the Governing Council. He appealed for government support to address various challenges faced by the institution.
The meeting was attended by key figures in education, including the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Bimpe Aderiye; Special Adviser to the Governor on Higher Education, Dr. Akeem Azeez, as well as the Vice Chancellor of BOUESTI, Prof. Olufemi Adeoluwa, and other principal officers of the institution.
