FG, Catholic Bishops Call For Educational Reform

In a significant initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s educational system, the federal government, through the former minister of education, Prof. Tahir Maman, alongside Catholic Bishops have called for collaborative efforts to reform the educational landscape.

Maman while speaking yesterday at the opening of the 4th National Catholic Education Summit held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in Abuja, underscored the urgent need for unity in addressing the country’s educational challenges.

The summit, themed “Global Compact on Education in the Nigerian Context,” brought together educators, policymakers, and various stakeholders to brainstorm innovative strategies for enhancing education quality.
“Our administration is dedicated to addressing the socio-economic and political issues plaguing our nation, but we need collective action,” Maman stated.

He praised the Catholic Secretariat for its commitment to educational excellence and urged attendees to actively contribute to advancing educational initiatives. “Teamwork will significantly increase our chances of achieving our goals,” he said.

The minister highlighted that existing government programmes are making positive strides and setting the groundwork for future reforms. “By collaborating within the education sector, we can achieve remarkable progress,” he asserted.

He unveiled a strategic framework called “Education for Renewed Hope: Nigerian Education Sector Roadmap (2023-2027),” emphasising practical problem-solving approaches across 13 thematic areas.
“Four main focus areas are encapsulated in the acronym DOTS: Data Repository, Out-of-School Children Education, Teacher Training and Continuous Professional Development, and Skills Acquisition and Development.

“Our DOTS policy aims to enhance our education system, producing competent, globally-ready citizens while promoting inclusivity and leveraging technology,” he explained.
Maman reaffirmed his commitment to collaborative advancement in education, stating that a united approach is vital for dismantling obstacles and ensuring quality education for every child.
The summit commenced with a mass featuring a homily from Emeritus Archbishop of Abuja, His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who stressed that genuine education should cultivate human solidarity.
“The Global Compact on Education should dismantle barriers and foster unity. This mission illustrates that every individual belongs to God’s chosen family, irrespective of their background,” he said.

He invited participants to reflect on the implications of Pope Francis’s encyclical ‘Fratelli Tutti’ for education.

The Auxiliary Bishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Bishop Moses Chikwe, also stressed the need for the government to educate young people to respect every individual, advocating for an education that goes beyond superficial knowledge.

He called for a holistic approach that nurtures the heart, mind, and soul, emphasizing the importance of instilling values alongside academic learning.

“Education is not just about intellect; it encompasses cultivating virtues essential for a democratic society.”

Chikwe urged participants to reassess traditional educational models that have fostered discrimination and inequality, advocating for a renewed focus on inclusivity.

“We need to reject all forms of discrimination and empower our youth to advocate for the marginalized. True education must promote harmony and respect for all,” he insisted.

The summit featured various presentations, panel discussions, and workshops aimed at formulating actionable strategies for overhauling Nigeria’s educational framework.

Discussions ranged from innovative teaching methodologies to infrastructure improvement and essential policy reforms necessary for educational progress.

The 4th National Catholic Education Summit served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration, calling for united efforts to reshape Nigeria’s educational landscape, ensuring a more equitable and thriving future.