Stakeholders in the sector have called for the implementation of evidence-based policies to address some of the complex challenges facing the ailing education system.
They also canvassed collective efforts and political will from all concerned, saying these would help in unlocking opportunities, foster innovation, and empower individuals to build better future.
They spoke at the ninth yearly international conference of the Faculty of Education, Lagos State University (LASU), themed: ‘Global challenges for education: Politics, policies and progress,’ which offered insights and strategies for educators, policymakers and stakeholders seeking to navigate the ever-shifting terrain of educational paradigms.
The Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Solomon Makinde, said despite being described as the cornerstone of societal development, education is still constantly challenged by political dynamics, policy shifts, and the relentless pursuit of progress.
For instance, in the field of sciences, Makinde said there is a challenge of keeping with rapid advancements, moreso, as it is under pressure to adapt to the realities of the post-pandemic world.
He said: “The need for a robust and flexible healthcare education system has never been more evident. We must train healthcare professionals who are not only skilled, but also adaptable and ready to respond to global challenges with agility and empathy.”
The don advocated an inclusive education for challenged individuals, noting that education must be accessible to all, regardless of physical, mental, or emotional problems.
Makinde further enjoined stakeholders to be mindful of the ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasising that it is already reshaping learning.
Chairman, local organising committee for the conference, Prof. Simeon Dosunmu, described education as not only a fundamental human right, but a catalyst for achieving the broader agenda of sustainable development.
He stated that the conference is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goal four, which centres on quality education.
Dosunmu appealed to political leaders to prioritise education and honour their commitments to allocate resources effectively towards the goal.
“The challenges facing education today are complex and multifaceted, but they are not insurmountable. By forging partnerships, fostering dialogue, and translating political commitments into tangible actions, we can pave the way for a future where every individual has the opportunity to fulfill his or her potential through quality education,” he said.
The lead paper presenter, Prof. Oluwole Akeredolu of the department of Human Kinetics, Sports and Health Education in the institution, urged the government and stakeholders to urgently address the challenges confronting the sector.
While advocating an enabling environment for learning, Akeredolu lamented increased cases of insecurity in the country, noting that teachers and students must feel safe without learning being disrupted.
He also joined in the call for a review of the curriculum to reflect the demands of the 21st century.
“We need to rethink what is being taught in schools, and perhaps, teach less content, opening more time for opportunities and skills development. Things are changing, unlike in the past when students were trained to look for jobs in government agencies,” Akeredolu stated.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Kasali Adeniran, said for the country to adapt to the new trend, it must seriously invest in quality education and skills development.
On her part, the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, said addressing the myriads of challenges confronting the sector requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
