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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Vice-Chancellor of Coal City University, Prof. Afam Icha Ituma, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s efforts at advancing Nigeria’s education sector.
Prof. Ituma, who spoke on Tuesday at the university’s 4th Public Lecture in Enugu, said the current administration’s reforms and policy direction reflect a renewed commitment to education as a driver of national development.
The lecture, titled “Repositioning Nigeria’s education sector: Private sector partnership for national growth and global competitiveness”, held at the university’s auditorium, drew participants from academia, government, and the private sector.
Prof. Ituma noted that recent reforms, policy initiatives, and investments by the Federal Government and various state governments were encouraging.
The vice-chancellor, particularly, praised efforts aimed at improving access to quality education, strengthening teaching and learning facilities, and promoting innovation through technology-driven programmes.
He cited the Enugu State Smart School Initiative as a notable example of forward-looking investment in modern education delivery, adding that similar interventions in other states demonstrate increasing recognition of the need to equip learners for a rapidly changing world.
He also noted that the Ebonyi State Government has invested significantly in education through an international scholarship programme designed to strengthen human capital development.
Prof. Ituma further observed that other governments across the Southeast region, including the Anambra State government, Abia State government, and Imo State government, are also prioritising education through reforms, infrastructure upgrades, skills development initiatives, and investments aimed at improving learning outcomes.
He, however, stressed that sustained government support remains essential to addressing longstanding challenges in the sector.
“While government has a leading role to play, stronger collaboration with the private sector, development partners, and academic institutions will further accelerate progress and improve outcomes across the system,” he said.
Prof. Ituma reaffirmed the commitment of Coal City University to academic excellence, innovation, entrepreneurship, and strategic partnerships that contribute to national growth.
The event was chaired by Prof. Chinedu Nebo, Vice-Chancellor, University on the Niger and former Minister of Power. Other dignitaries included Prof. I. U. Kalu, Vice-Chancellor, Evangel University; Prof. Uche Vasser; Chief Ben Etiaba; Prof. Joe Ukemenam, and other stakeholders in the education sector.
A keynote address was delivered by Peter Obi, while the panel discussion, moderated by Prof. Felicia Moh, focused on practical pathways for strengthening Nigeria’s education system.
