Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has challenged Nigerian universities to move beyond theoretical knowledge and ensure that their teachings translate into tangible societal impact.
Kalu, who stated this while delivering the 37th convocation lecture of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), emphasised that education is incomplete if communities do not feel the impact of the academia.
In his lecture titled: ‘Our gowns in town and in cyberspace: Sustainable and human-centred education, the mandate of our universities 2025 to 2075,’ Kalu stressed that tertiary institutions must be catalysts for national development.
“Universities are established as engines of progress. That is why they must go beyond theories,” he stated. The lawmaker argued that education should not just be about knowledge acquisition, but about equipping students to transform society.
“As we approach 2075, our education must have meaningful societal impact. Our learning institutions must bridge the gap between knowledge and real-world application,” Kalu added.
He also called for a review of Nigeria’s quota system in education, advocating a shift from geographic to gender-based quota, as a means of empowerment. Furthermore, he urged universities to embrace digital technology, highlighting that adaptation to modern trends could significantly enhance their fortunes.
“With the right digital adoption, our universities can redefine their future and remain globally competitive,” he noted. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to speak, Kalu described himself as “a living proof that education is power.”
Prof. Eka Braide, who chaired the event, echoed Kalu’s sentiments, urging universities to extend their impact beyond classrooms and engage in real-world problem-solving.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, praised the institution’s alumni, noting that many of them now hold influential positions in Nigeria’s governance and policymaking.
“We are proud to have produced men and women of great calibre, who are shaping national policies and holding our institution’s banner high,” Obi stated.
