Zulum calls for overhaul of educational system to align with industry needs

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has urged a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s education system to bridge the gap between academic training and industry demands.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by Mr Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), at the Government House in Maiduguri, Zulum expressed concern over the growing disconnect between graduates’ skills and the requirements of modern industries.

“We face two major challenges: the disconnect between educational institutions and industries, and the mismatch between the labour market and graduates, many of whom are ill-prepared for the workplace,” he stated.

The Governor called on NELFUND to focus on solutions that empower graduates to drive innovation, technological advancement, and self-employment.

“Beyond offering loans, I urge you to explore ways to support entrepreneurship education and promote technical and vocational training to reduce the reluctance towards these critical areas of study,” Zulum added.

Zulum lauded President Bola Tinubu for establishing NELFUND, highlighting its potential to reduce illiteracy, especially in the North East. He pledged to mobilise local government chairmen and traditional rulers to create awareness about the program.

He also noted the program’s positive impact, saying, “Reports indicate that a significant number of students who applied for NELFUND loans received them with ease.”

During the visit, Mr Akintunde Sawyerr outlined NELFUND’s mission to address financial barriers to education. He highlighted that the loans are interest-free, with repayment set at 10% of the beneficiary’s income after securing employment.

Accompanying Sawyerr were Professor Babagana Gutti, Vice Chancellor of Borno State University, and representatives from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

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