In the heart of Nigeria, two remarkable women have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals: Dr. Rosemary Nwangwu and Prof. Chinwe Anunobi. Their journeys, though distinct, converge on a shared passion for transforming lives through education.

Nwangwu’s story is one of unwavering dedication, vision, and compassion.

“Education is the key to unlocking the potential of individuals and communities,” she always says. From Nigeria to Iraq, South Sudan, Eritrea, and Maiduguri, she has worked tirelessly with esteemed organisations like UNICEF and UNESCO, empowering communities and shaping policies.

One notable example of Nwangwu’s innovative approach is her work with refugees and displaced persons in conflict zones. I imagine her standing amid the chaos, her voice calm and reassuring, as she provides educational opportunities and skills training to those who need it most. Her expertise has been instrumental in shaping education policies and reform, earning her recognition as a leading education specialist.

In Bonny Kingdom, Nigeria, Nwangwu collaborated with Ifeanyi Igwebike Mbanefo to create a 25-year master plan, addressing the root causes of educational challenges and paving the way for sustainable growth. The plan included initiatives like building schools, training teachers, and providing resources for students. The impact was palpable – increased access to education, improved literacy rates, and a sense of hope for a brighter future.

Anunobi, too, has been a driving force in promoting literacy and access to information. As a champion of education, she has spearheaded initiatives under her eight-point agenda, aiming to bridge the knowledge gap. Her efforts include digitising over 6,000 rare materials, developing the National Repository of Nigeria, and promoting reading culture through community outreach.

I envision Anunobi visiting rural communities, her eyes shining with passion, as she encourages children to read and learn. She’s a firm believer that education is the key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential. One of her notable initiatives is her collaboration with stakeholders to promote reading culture and literacy. She has worked with organisations like the National Institute for Cultural Orientation and the American Centre to enhance library services, making knowledge more accessible to all.

Their paths converge at the Nigeria University for the Third Age (NU3A), where Nwangwu is a founding member. This pioneering initiative empowers seniors to share knowledge, skills, and experiences, fostering lifelong learning and social connection. Anunobi’s work, though not directly tied to NU3A, resonates with the spirit of community engagement and partnership.

The Power Of NU3A
NU3A offers numerous benefits to Nigeria, NLN, and senior citizens: Rent-free meeting hubs: Providing accessible spaces for seniors to learn, share, and connect. Subsidised world-class faculty fees: Making high-quality education affordable for seniors. Cross-Atlantic engagements: Fostering global connections and knowledge sharing. Borderless, virtual classes: Expanding access to education, regardless of location. Travel, exploration, and new language learning: Enriching seniors’ lives through cultural exchange and learning. Domestication of knowledge and local context: Promoting Nigerian culture and context in education. Sustainability and commercial orientation for the library: Ensuring the long-term viability of NU3A’s initiatives.

For Nigeria, NU3A contributes to: Knowledge sharing and preservation: Seniors sharing their expertise and experiences. Community engagement: Fostering social connections and community development. Lifelong learning culture: Promoting a culture of continuous learning.

For NLN, NU3A offers: Greater visibility and national relevance; knowledge partnership – access to senior expertise and experience; and employee development – opportunities for staff to engage in lifelong learning.

For senior citizens, NU3A provides: Purpose and fulfillment: Continuing to contribute and learn. Social connection: Building relationships and community. Personal growth: Expanding knowledge and skills.

The concept of lifelong learning is at the heart of their endeavours. As Nwangwu says, “Learning is a journey, not a destination.” This mindset recognises that education is a continuous process, not a mere milestone. It’s about embracing growth, discovery, and self-improvement, regardless of age or background.

Lifelong learning is built on four pillars: Learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together, and learning to be. It’s about acquiring knowledge, developing skills, fostering social cohesion, and cultivating personal growth. Countries like Japan, Singapore, and those in Scandinavia have long recognised the importance of lifelong learning, incorporating it into their education systems and national policies.

In Nigeria, initiatives like the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and the University of the Third Age (U3A) are promoting lifelong learning opportunities. These efforts are crucial in a rapidly changing world, where adaptability, creativity, and innovation are key to success.

The benefits of lifelong learning are numerous. It improves self-confidence, increases adaptability, enhances creativity, and fosters better decision-making. It’s a mindset that recognises learning as a continuous process, not a destination. By embracing lifelong learning, individuals can unlock personal and professional growth, stay relevant in a rapidly changing world, and lead more fulfilling lives.

As we reflect on the journeys of Dr. Nwangwu and Prof. Anunobi, we are reminded of the power of education to transform lives. Their stories inspire us to embrace lifelong learning, to pursue knowledge, and to make a difference in our communities.

Their legacy will continue to inspire generations, transforming education and lives, one community at a time. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” Let us strive to make a difference, one step at a time.

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