Achievers University, Owo, marked a significant milestone during its 14th Convocation Lecture, as the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Osun State, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, delivered a thought-provoking address titled: “Modelling Quality Education for the Reach of the Vulnerable.”
Speaking as the keynote lecturer, Oba Abolarin, a former lecturer, emphasized the need for systemic solutions to address education vulnerabilities in Nigeria. He called on the government to prioritize investments in infrastructure, teacher training, and inclusive education policies, particularly in underserved regions.
The traditional ruler stressed that Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, has the potential to serve as a model for addressing educational disparities through strategic policies and targeted interventions.
Solutions for Education Vulnerabilities
Oba Abolarin outlined key measures to improve education access and quality for vulnerable populations, including:
- Increased Government Investment: Allocating more resources to underserved regions to improve infrastructure and teacher quality.
- Technology Integration: Leveraging technology to provide remote learning opportunities in regions with limited school access.
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with local leaders to address cultural barriers such as child marriage, which hinder education.
- Formal and Informal Education Integration: Adopting a hybrid model to increase school enrollment across all regions.
- Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Partnering with governments, universities, international organizations, and private-sector actors to address systemic barriers to education.
The monarch, who founded the Abolarin College in 2006 to provide free education for underserved students, underscored the importance of equity-focused strategies in achieving inclusive and transformative education systems.
Role of Universities
Oba Abolarin noted that universities have a “moral and pragmatic responsibility” to bridge the educational divide for vulnerable populations. According to him, tertiary institutions can drive systemic change by:
- Conducting research into effective education models.
- Partnering with global and local organizations.
- Training the next generation of educators and policymakers.
- Leveraging technology to develop open-access platforms for marginalized learners.
The monarch further advocated for the use of AI-based tools to personalize learning and assessment in underserved communities, emphasizing the importance of innovation in overcoming education challenges.
Achievers University’s Contribution
In his remarks, Dr. Bode Ayorinde, Pro-Chancellor and Founder of Achievers University, highlighted the institution’s commitment to providing quality education. He stated:
“At Achievers University, we have continued to offer scholarships to vulnerable and underprivileged students, ensuring that education remains accessible to all.”
Dr. Ayorinde applauded Oba Abolarin for delivering a timely lecture and for his exemplary leadership in promoting education among underserved populations. He described the 14th Convocation Lecture as a historic moment, being the first time a traditional ruler and legal luminary had delivered such a lecture at the university.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, members of the academic community, and other distinguished guests.
Achievers University remains steadfast in its mission to deliver equitable, inclusive, and high-quality education as a pathway to transforming lives and uplifting communities.
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