By David Odama (In Nasarawa State)
The crisis in the education sector in Nigeria has been blamed on the inability of the government to properly fund the sector and allowed lip service to driving the sector.
Senator Abdullahi Adamu who spoke at the sideline of an event in Nasarawa State at the weekend said Universities in Nigeria were going through challenges of funding which is translating into weak infrastructural development, poor teaching and learning, non-provision of modern facilities, and inability to employ the required staff
In order to address the trend, Adamu appealed for improved funding of Universities so they can achieve their strategic vision of becoming a world-class institution.
The Senator representing Nasarawa West advocated for the establishment of a platform to interface with the managers of the tertiary institutions and the government for intellectual discussion to foster educational advancement.
“Establishment of a platform for interface and intellectual discourse between the highest policy-making organ will not only foster a clear understanding of the challenges of development but will provide an avenue for finding, ensure sustainable solutions to the development of the sector", Adamu stated.
Senator Adamu observed that good governance is about how public institutions conduct public affairs and manage public resources, adding that some of the key indicators of good governance include public participation, respect for rule of law, transparency, accountability, responsiveness, equity, effectiveness, and efficiency.
He, however, expressed optimism that there is still more to be done to get Nigerians out of abject poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and the challenges of urbanization, as has been said that 'the reward for hard work is more work'.
The Lawmaker who recommended more intellectual policy discourse between the University management and the Government, however, urged consideration on agriculture and solid minerals development in order to collectively work towards achieving the desired educational development.
Senator Abdullahi Adamu, who was the first civilian governor of Nasa State, advised the present Governor, Abdullahi Sule to use his vast experience in the private sector to take Nasarawa State to enviable heights. He also said that the citizens are looking up to him. He assured him of his prayers to enable him to leave lasting footprints in the sands of time after his tenure. NNL.
