In line with its assessments based on cutting edge research and UNESCO key performance index of the education sector in selected African countries, the Sahara Education Development Initiative (SEDI), said Nigeria has attained significant achievement within a short period since Prof. Tahir Mamman was appointed a minister.
The Executive Director of SEDI, Prince Arthur Nwakanma, who disclosed this in Lagos, said the challenges and disharmony that plagued the education sector, exemplified by the eight-month strike of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) during the previous administration, caused serious damage and setbacks.
“However, your leadership has effectively changed the narrative with your renewed hope mantra and visionary strategic plans for education in Nigeria. Your extensive background and experience in academia, both administratively and in management, make your appointment by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, a fitting choice, demonstrating a perfect alignment of skills and responsibilities.”
“We are particularly impressed by your firm commitments to key policy measures aimed at advancing the education sector’s role in national growth and development. Your initiatives include increased investment in the sector, enhanced transparency and accountability in service delivery, incentives to promote higher education, and prioritization of enrolling out-of-school children,” he said.
Nwakanma said the minister’s active participation in negotiations with ASUU and the Federal Government to address issues related to the welfare of university teachers, salary increases, university autonomy, and academic freedoms is commendable.
“This commitment aligns with the President’s vision to eliminate industrial crises in the sector, and the fruitful discussions thus far, including the gradual clearance of salary backlogs and the removal of universities and polytechnics from IPPIS, indicate significant progress and stability in tertiary institutions,” he said.
