Don Seeks Comprehensive Reform in Education Sector

An educationist, Prof. Adams Onuka yesterday, underscored the need for comprehensive reforms as a panacea to challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector.
Onuka, a retired professor at the University of Ibadan, said this in an interview with NAN in Ibadan.
He noted that a holistic review of the education sector was critical to achieving sustainable progress, rather than fragmented policies.
He urged government to adopt long-term planning frameworks, such as a five-year development plan, to ensure policy stability and continuity.
Onuka also noted that strict implementation of education budgets as well as improved prioritisation of the sector, were essential for growth.
He urged government to suspend the creation of new public institutions, and focus on strengthening existing schools and universities through adequate funding, staffing and provision of modern facilities.
The don also underscored the need for prudent financial management, including reduced spending on non-essential travels by institutional heads.
He urged the need for greater use of digital platforms such as virtual meetings to redirect scarce resources to teaching, research and infrastructure.
Besides, he noted that prioritising transport infrastructure, especially road networks, would have multiplier effects on security, employment and even access to schools.
On his outlook for 2026, Onuka said that a committed policy implementation, fiscal discipline and comprehensive reforms would enhance productivity in the education sector.