Education strengthens Nigeria, U.S. ties, says consul general

Expert advocates technology-based learning

The United States (U.S.) Consul General in Lagos, F. John Bray, has said that education is one of the key factors bolstering the bilateral relationship between US and Nigeria.

He said this while declaring open the “2017 EducationUSA Annual College and Career Fair,” in Lagos for prospective Nigerian undergraduate and graduate students. The fair was organised by the EducationUSA Advising Centre in collaboration with the Foreign Commercial Service of the U.S. Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria.

The yearly event, which recorded a large turnout of students, parents and guardians, featured admissions officers from 25 American colleges and universities, including The George Washington University, Drexel University, University of Wisconsin, Western Kentucky University, among others.

They shared information on their institutions and opportunities available to participants. Bray, who maintained that Nigeria and U.S. have been close allies for ages, asserted that America remains a leading destination for international students, as they offer students an unrivaled educational experience, flexibility and diversity.

“This year the number of international students in the US climbed to over one million globally. More than 10,000 of the students are from Nigeria.  That is more than the number of the previous year but there could be more.

“I am pleased to see so many students, parents, teachers and administrators here today,” he added. Meanwhile, the Administrator Grace Schools, Tokunbo Edun, has said for Nigeria’s education system to be globally competitive and relevant, it must make use of the latest technology and learning aids.

Speaking in Lagos while unveiling the Logo of the 50th Anniversary celebration of Grace Schools, she noted that there was a wide technology gap between private and public schools, adding that the situation does not augur well for the country’s growth.

“While many private schools, particularly the very big ones have the latest ICT facilities, sophisticated child-friendly white boards, computers are very rare in many of our public schools. This is not the way to go. “We should give all our children equal educational opportunities,” she said.