Dr. Adetola Salau is an education policy strategist, social innovator, and advocate for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) integration in African education systems. With over two decades of experience, her work champions inclusive, equitable, and future forward education reform, she currently serves as the Special Adviser on Education, Policy Formulation, and Human Capital Development to the Governor of Kwara State, where she drives transformative initiatives across the education value chain. Through Carisma4U Educational Foundation, she is reengineering learning mindsets, particularly for girls in underserved communities. In this interview, she speaks about her passion for fostering innovation as well as education policy and practice in Nigeria.
Tell us about your background.
I am a global educator, an engineer, and author with a deep commitment to transforming education in Africa. I hold a B.Sc. in Chemistry from Fordham University, an M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, and another M.Sc. in Engineering Management from Syracuse University. I also have a Ph.D. in Curriculum, Instruction, and the Science of Learning at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. My professional journey began as a public-school teacher in New York City, followed by teaching roles in California, South Carolina, and North Carolina. I also served as an adjunct lecturer at Fordham University. In 2015, I founded Carisma4U Educational Foundation (now ELIA Africa Development Initiative), a social innovation enterprise focused on transforming STEM education in Nigeria and across Africa. In 2020, I served as a Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Nigeria, advising on education policy and implementation. In 2023, I was appointed to be the Special Adviser on Education, Policy Formulation and Human Capital Development to the Executive Governor of Kwara State.
What would you say is the biggest misconception about what African education needs right now?
A prevalent misconception is that African education requires a complete overhaul of the existing system. While structural changes are necessary, the most urgent need is a mindset shift both among educators and policymakers. We must move away from rote memorisation and embrace inquiry-based, student-centered learning approaches that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, integrating soft skills such as communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence is crucial for preparing students for the complexities of the 21st century. In my book, ‘Reimagining African Education’, I draw upon my over two decades of experience as an educator and educational policy strategist rethinking how to utilise evidence to redesign African education systems for relevance, equity, and long-term impact. It is both a call to action and a guidebook for educational transformation. Readers are empowered to question outdated models, embrace bold ideas, and build inclusive, resilient education systems that prepare African learners for a rapidly evolving global future.
Your work blends STEM, policy, and youth empowerment. How do you balance these intersecting worlds in your advocacy and implementation?
Recently, I had the opportunity to reflect on my purpose and expressed my ‘why’ in a book called ‘Bridging Two Worlds’. This is a mixture of a memoir and policy reflection that traced my life journey. I have always straddled between worlds, the United States and Nigeria; and learned to navigate identity, purpose, and impact across continents. My personal history, professional evolution, and civic responsibility all converged to drive me to desire meaningful change, especially in Africa’s critical education sector. My work has always centered around designing programmes that not only impart technical knowledge but also emphasize real-world applications and soft skills development. In my advisory role with both Lagos State and Kwara State government, I advocate for policies that support STEM education and youth empowerment, ensuring that these policies are implemented effectively at the grassroots level. Collaboration with various stakeholders, including educators, policymakers, and community leaders, is key to creating sustainable impact.
You often emphasise bold reform over incremental change. What does bold reform look like in the context of African public schools?
Bold reform in African public schools means challenging the status quo and implementing transformative changes that address systemic issues. This includes revising outdated curricula, adopting technology-driven teaching methods, and providing comprehensive teacher training programmes. For instance, the “Every Child Counts” initiative in Kwara State, Nigeria, exemplifies bold reform by focusing on foundational literacy and numeracy, teacher professional development, and community involvement to improve educational outcomes.
Kwara State recently gained international recognition for its education innovations. What specific policies or strategies led to that success?
Kwara State’s success can be attributed to the ‘Every Child Counts’ education reform, which focuses on four key pillars; Teaching Quality Improvement: Implementing regular assessments and professional development for teachers, Inspectorate Development; Establishing quality assurance standards for schools; College of Education Turnaround: Enhancing the capacity of teacher training institutions and Institution Building: Strengthening education management systems at the state level. These strategies have led to improved literacy and numeracy rates and increased community involvement in education.
You champion Girls in STEM, what structural changes would you recommend to ensure more gender inclusion in these fields?
To promote gender inclusion in STEM, structural changes should include curriculum reform. We must design curricula that challenge gender stereotypes and encourage all students to explore STEM subjects. Establishing mentorship opportunities where female role models in STEM can guide and inspire young girls is equally recommended. The system should enforce policies that promote gender equity in STEM education and career opportunities. Conducting campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of girls’ participation in STEM and to challenge societal norms that discourage them is recommended to ensure more gender inclusion in these fields.
From founding Carisma4U to advisory at government level, how has your perspective on education evolved over the years?
My perspective has evolved from viewing education as a means of knowledge transmission to recognising it as a tool for empowerment and societal transformation. Founding Carisma4U allowed me to implement innovative STEM programmes directly impacting students. Advising at the government level has broadened my understanding of policy development and the importance of systemic change. Both experiences have reinforced my belief in the necessity of integrating policy, practice, and community engagement to achieve meaningful educational reform.
What role does technology, especially AI and digital learning play in building more inclusive and future-ready classrooms?
Technology, particularly AI and digital learning tools, plays a pivotal role in bridging educational gaps by providing personalised learning experiences and access to resources that may be otherwise unavailable. Initiatives like the development of AI-powered applications for coding education demonstrate the potential of technology to enhance learning outcomes. However, it’s essential to ensure equitable access to technology and provide adequate training for educators to effectively integrate these tools into their teaching practices.
Teacher training has been a consistent theme in your work. What are the key shifts we need to make to empower educators across the continent?
Empowering educators requires a multifaceted approach, including continuous Professional Development. Offering regular training programmes that focus on modern teaching methodologies and subject matter expertise; Supportive Work Environment: Creating conditions that allow teachers to thrive, including adequate resources and manageable workloads; Incentives and Recognition: Acknowledging and rewarding excellence in teaching to motivate educators and community engagement which involves teachers in decision-making processes to foster a sense of ownership and accountability.
In your opinion, what are the key traits or habits women need to cultivate to be the best versions of themselves?
The vital habit that changed my life over a decade ago was one of the seven habits of effective people as opinioned by Stephen Covey. It is the one which comprises of beginning with the end in mind. This involves outlining clear goals and a strategy to attain them, whether it’s for a short-term plan or a lifelong dream.
How do you maintain a balance between your professional and personal life?
Maintaining a balance between my professional life and personal life is a tough task. I have had to learn to compartmentalise things in their places. Keeping boundaries in place.
When you reflect on your career, what do you hope your legacy will be in the educational sector?
To be a part of bridging the educational divide in Africa, creating great learning experiences, mentorship, and resources for African youth, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of being able to transform their communities and create economically viable lifestyles. By focusing on creating equitable access and inclusion. Empowerment through skills building and preparing African youth for global opportunities and challenges.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders who look up to you as a source of inspiration?
Find your authentic voice and channel it through what keeps you up late at night. Follow that path and see where it leads you. Learn to identify helpers and mentors. Keep learning and iterating. Be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them.
What is your vision for African education over the next 10 years?
My vision for African education in the next decade is one where all students have access to high-quality, inclusive, and future-ready education that equips them with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
What’s your call to action for leaders, parents, and communities?
Leaders should prioritise education in policy agendas and allocate resources effectively. Parents should actively engage in their children’s education and support their learning journeys. Communities must collaborate in creating supportive environments that value and promote education. Together, we can build an educational system that empowers every African child to reach their full potential.
What is your life mantra?
“Nunquam cede” is Latin for “never give up”. I recite it to myself to draw inner strength and determination to keep on persevering through varying situations.
