Lagos:Two prominent education experts have called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to bolster the nation’s knowledge economy by enhancing internet access, offering scholarships, and fortifying university structures.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation and Development at Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Akanni Akinyemi, alongside Dr. Jeff Bordes, CEO of Astra Learning, advocated for these initiatives during an academic workshop in Lagos. The event was organized by Obafemi Awolowo University in collaboration with Astra Learning, an educational technology firm.
The experts emphasized the necessity of government support to ensure digital education benefits reach underserved learners, especially those in rural areas. Akinyemi highlighted the need for expanding Information and Communication Technology infrastructure and internet connectivity nationwide, as well as implementing scholarship programs for those unable to afford online education.
Akinyemi also stressed the importance of localizing online educational content to cater to learners from various linguistic backgrounds. He remarked that such efforts would make digital education more inclusive and enable access to global learning opportunities for individuals across Nigeria. The partnership between OAU and Astra Learning is seen as a pivotal innovation supporting Nigeria’s shift towards a knowledge-driven economy.
Dr. Bordes underscored the significance of human capital as Nigeria’s most valuable economic asset, surpassing the nation’s oil and mineral resources. He advocated for investments in the skills and knowledge of the population, urging the government to create policies that facilitate growth and innovation in educational institutions. Bordes also emphasized the importance of fostering confidence in local universities to enhance their infrastructure and attract international students.