Nigeria's new education minister, Professor Tahir Mamman, faces a daunting task as he takes charge of the nation's higher education sector, which broken promises and neglect have long plagued. Nigerian students, who have been most affected by these challenges, hope this leadership change will bring about fundamental reforms that benefit them.
The challenges facing the sector are significant. Once a source of national pride, universities need more infrastructure, decreasing capacity, and a growing disparity between promises and actions. The emergence of private universities, which cater to a select few, has further deepened the divide, leaving many students needing clarification on their future in this evolving landscape.
Professor Yakubu Ochefu, the spokesperson for the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU), has highlighted the crucial expectations from Mamman. However, the question remains for students: will these promises be any different? Will they see tangible improvements in their academic experience?
Professor Onuoha Oliver, from the University of Lagos, stresses the urgent need for concrete change. From better infrastructure to university autonomy, the demands are clear and specific. The sector needs more than words; it requires genuine commitment and action.
As Mamman begins his tenure, Nigerian students keep a close eye, hoping that promises will be honoured this time and the higher education sector will genuinely serve all, not just a privileged few.
