Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for an education system tailored to Africa’s realities while fostering global competitiveness.
Speaking on Tuesday at the opening plenary of the Africa Student Leaders General Assembly in Abuja, Shettima emphasized the need for a pro-Africa education system as a key to unlocking the continent’s potential. The event, themed “Pro-Africa Education System: A Key to Unlocking Africa’s Potentials,” brought together students and leaders across Africa.
Represented by Mahmud Muhammad, Personal Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Domestic North-East Affairs, Shettima urged African students to embrace a holistic education approach. “Our education must bridge learning and practical application, addressing real-world challenges while celebrating our strengths,” he said.
Keynote speaker Prof. David Namwandi, a former Namibian Minister of Education, echoed the vice president’s sentiments. He called for curricula that integrate African history, culture, and innovation alongside global advancements. “African universities must prioritize research that drives industrialization and economic growth,” he added.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, represented by Zonal Pastor Dipo Fisho, stressed the importance of producing educational materials in African languages. Other speakers, including Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement Comrade Asefon Sunday and NANS President Comrade Lucky Emonefe, underscored the transformative role of education in fostering unity and progress.
Delegates from across the continent attended the event, organized by the All African Students Union (AASU) in collaboration with Reachout World Day, NNPC, and other partners.
