By Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun
Esteemed Educators, dear Students, and fellow citizens,
Today, January 24th, we celebrate the International Day of Education, a day set aside by the United Nations to recognize the transformative power of education in promoting peace, development, and human well-being.
As we mark this important day, we are reminded of the immense challenges facing our education sector in Nigeria. Despite progress made, many of our citizens, particularly the vulnerables, continue to face significant barriers in accessing quality education.
This year’s theme, “Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” is particularly relevant to our context. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology increasingly shape our world, it is crucial that we prioritize education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, innovation and human values.
As we navigate this rapidly changing landscape, we must ensure that our education system prepares learners to thrive in a world where automation and AI are increasingly prevalent. This requires a renewed focus on developing skills that are complementary to technology, such as empathy, problem-solving, and collaboration.
However, this is not just about preparing learners for the future of work. It is about ensuring that education serves as a powerful tool for social mobility, equality, and justice. It is about recognizing that education is a fundamental human right, essential for the dignity and well-being of all individuals.
So, what should we do to promote accessible and equitable education in Nigeria? First, we must prioritize investment in our education sector, ensuring that schools are well-equipped, teachers are well-trained, and learners have access to quality learning resources.
Second, we must work to address the systemic inequalities that prevent many learners from accessing education. This includes initiatives to promote girls’ education, support learners with disabilities, and address the needs of marginalized communities and ultimately, promote Technical Education as a veritable alternative.
Third, we must harness the power of technology to expand access to education, particularly for those in remote or hard-to-reach areas. This includes initiatives to promote digital literacy, online learning platforms, and innovative uses of AI and other technologies.
As we celebrate the International Day of Education, I urge you all to join me in advocating for inclusive and quality education for all in Nigeria. Let us use our voices to raise awareness about the importance of education, and to demand action from all stakeholders to address the challenges facing our education sector.
Let us also recognize the critical role that educators, parents, and communities play in shaping the minds and futures of our young people. Let us celebrate their dedication, hard work, and commitment to providing quality education.
In conclusion, the International Day of Education is a call to action – a reminder that education is the key to unlocking the potential of our citizens, our communities, and our nation. Let us work together to build an education system that is inclusive, equitable, and just, and that prepares learners to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Thank you.
Igbega Ipinle Eko, Ajumose NI.
-Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, is the
Honourable Commissioner For Basic and Secondary Education, Lagos state
