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Opinion

The Collapse Of Competence In Campus Curriculum

Published

3 years ago

on

 

By Bala Ibrahim.

My attention was drawn by a friend to a television program, 30 minutes with Dr. Hakeem Baba Ahmed on Trust TV, anchored by veteran journalist and former colleague at the BBC, Mannir Dan Ali. It was a nail-biting program that virtually touched on everything about the situation in Nigeria, but for some reasons, I would only focus on one aspect of the discussion-the educational decay in our schools, particularly the universities.

I know Dr. Hakeem Baba Ahmed to be skillfully multitalented in a multifaceted manner, but that particular outing had brought out his academic dexterity, and splendidly marketed his fluidity of speech, as well as his magnificence to me. It was a 30 minutes program, but in the end, I felt like someone that had gone through a complete semester in the curriculum of governance.

Although as always, once the opportunity presents itself to him, the erudite doctor never fail to attack President Muhammadu Buhari and his leadership style, which he termed defective, and which always peeves me, but nonetheless, no one can deny the immensity of the enlightenment therein.

Dr. Hakeem Baba Ahmed, who said he is lecturing in about three universities in Nigeria, all in the capacity of a visiting lecturer, admitted to the dearth of competence amongst the academics, as a consequence of which, the lecturers now lecture with little or no confidence in the class. This is aside the inconsistencies and deficiencies contained in the academic curriculum. Poorly trained teachers are tasked to groom students, the result of which is always predictable- cabbage in cabbage out.

Listening to him, I recollected the submission of people with the clamor for better and valuable education, who have time without number complained about teacher incompetence, and it’s consequences on the future of our children. Teacher incompetence, particularly in tertiary schools, is a major issue that is facing many universities and Colleges in Nigeria today, and Dr. Hakeem pointedly blamed the problem on the lack of planning by those in charge of the system. And the victims of course are the students and parents, with the country being the greatest looser.

He was particularly perturbed by the lack of concern in including history in the School curriculum. He attributes most of the problems facing the country today, including the senseless secession agitations from the likes of Nnamdi Kanu and Sunday Igboho, to the result of poor understanding of Nigeria’s history.

Educationists often describe the theory of incompetence as the root cause of personality flaws, and that an incompetent educator is simply not suited for teaching. Like Dr. Hakeem rightly observed, recognizing the characteristics of incompetent educators is an important aspect of improving the education system, whether in public or private institutions.

A lot of researches have linked incompetence and the participation in illegal activities in our schools. Participation in an illegal activity falls under the umbrella of ethical, administrative and personal incompetence. A teacher’s involvement in any illegal activity, such as drug use, theft or public intoxication, violates the standard expected of a professional educator, because, once illegal activity is linked to a teacher, the teacher’s judgment and moral code is called to question.

I was particularly impressed by the frankness of Dr. Hakeem, who said because of the parental penchant for private education, occasioned by the desire of parents to see to it that their children obtained a certificate under an uninterrupted calendar, less emphasis is placed on the school’s curriculum, or the seriousness of the child in school.

Parents simply send their children to private universities in Nigeria, just to avoid the pain of frequent strikes by the Academic staff union of universities, ASUU. No one cares about the quality of the education they would acquire. At least some would say, it would come cheaper than freighting the children to China, Cyprus or even the United Kingdom.

The ambition and anticipation of the theory of garbage in garbage out is that, anytime we use incompetent, incorrect or poor-quality input, we should expect to reap a produce of faulty output. And Nigeria’s educational system cannot be an exception.

In appreciating the concerns of Dr. Hakeem Baba Ahmed, as regards the collapse of competence in the curriculum of our schools, I call on the minister of education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, another erudite writer and public commentator, to make time to look at these issues, especially the collapse of qualitative curriculum in private universities and colleges.

There is a story by a student from one of the Nigerian universities that, they had a lecturer who claimed to hold a PhD, but couldn’t answer some rudimental questions. The lecturer would lecture for 10 minutes and go blank, then spend the rest of time giving the students irrelevant stories. It’s like he lacked both information and experience. When it became the norm or his mode of operation, the students became skeptical of the credibility of his PhD, which was discovered to have been awarded by one of the private universities in Nigeria.

The dust is yet to settle, about the outbreak of public anger and disgust, over the recent graduation of some prominent personalities with degrees in law from a private university in Abuja. Many, including yours truly, cannot take the risk of submitting to the defense of these lawyers, particularly one of them that is notorious for the defiance of the law.

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Opinion

Let President Tinubu Rename University of Lagos After Gowon, Not Abuja

Published

4 days ago

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December 18, 2024

By

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

 

 

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

I was not happy when Northwest University Kano was renamed to Yusuf Maitama Sule University, as student leaders of that University then, we followed the interest of the students who were also not happy with the renaming at that time for one reason; the renaming was politically motivated, to hurt the founder of the institution Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. I was busy mobilising students to protest, the next day I was invited to the DSS for questions where I spent hours and all the people we were mobilising the protest together ran and dissociated themselves from it. I have no option but to plead with the DSS to release me, assuring them that not a single student would protest the government’s action.

The renaming has affected many students who are seeking admission abroad; it’s Northwest University on my transcript and Yusuf Maitama Sule University on my certificate. This is kinda confusing and not good at all.

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Politicians should immortalise individuals in their new projects not existing ones. The renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University is not good for the university’s alumni.

The President should have found a new project or built a new University by naming it after the former Head of State.

I don’t support the idea of playing politics by renaming our universities and this happens mostly in Nigeria.

Imagine waking up renaming the University of Maiduguri to Mohammed Goni University, Yobe State University to Ibrahim Geidam University, the University of Ibadan to Abiola Ajimobi University, the University of Lagos to Lateef Jakande University.

It will be bad for the alumni of the aforementioned universities to come across this.

Why is this only happening in Africa? Look at Makerere University in Uganda, it was established in 1920 but despite Yoweri Mosevenni’s long reign; he didn’t for once attempt to change it to even his name for selfish reasons.

He didn’t think of renaming the Entebbe International Airport after him but in Nigeria, we have this culture of renaming everything after individuals.

If you want to be immortalised, leave a lasting legacy as Gowon did in establishing NYSC. That enough is Okay and better than naming an institution after him.

President Tinubu should have renamed the University of Lagos after Gowon, not Abuja. I’m sure his people will reject this not for any reason but because of the large number of people that will be affected by it.

The University of Abuja Alumni were all crying over this painful decision.

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Opinion

Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya: Champion of Civil Society and Good Governance in Northern Nigeria

Published

6 days ago

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December 16, 2024

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Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, is an influential Civil Society figure in Kano State and Northern Nigeria. He is currently serving as the Executive Director, Citizens for Development and Education (CDE), he has dedicated many years of his civil society activism as advocate for the promotion of democracy, good governance, anti-corruption, peace building and women empowerment

Amb. Waiya, holds number of academic qualifications, including a Higher National Diploma in Public Administration from Kano State Polytechnic, a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, Master’s in Public International Law at Maryam Abacha, American University, Maradi, and he is currently pursuing a doctor of philosophy at Skyline University, Kano in International Relations

In the course of his career, he held several positions and managed a number of projects. He served as the Director, Alhilal Foundation, from 2003 to 2007, an organization which focused on women empowerment, through basic literacy and skills acquisition. He later coordinated the North West Zonal Office of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Foundation. Amb. Ibrahim Waiya, led and coordinated a number of Local Government Councils Elections Observation missions across 19 Northern states.

In 2011, Waiya managed the Campaign against Drug Abuse under the auspices of Northern Youth Assembly, a youth driven platform with leadership structures in the Nineteen Northern States. He served as Secretary, for both, Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign and Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Child Abuse, a project which was coordinated by the office of the Special Adviser, Child Welfare and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. His involvement in election observation coordination missions and various public engagements, highlights his commitment to civic engagement towards community development, democracy and good governance

Waiya’s extensive experience includes free consultancy support services to numerous Government Ministries and Agencies such as: Kano State Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Development, Kano State Ministry for Community and Rural Development, office of the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Child Welfare, Ministry for Special duties, office of the special adviser, joint security services. He has facilitated numerous training workshops and seminars, impacting his knowledge, skills, experience on the community, particularly for community based organizations

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In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed to several key positions, such as the President, of the Kano Civil Society Forum, Chairman of the Conference of Northern States Civil Society Networks, Convener, Nigeria for Peace Project, Managing partner, United Nigeria Project, Head of Secretariat, Kano Peace Committee, Secretary General, National Action for Women Agenda,(NAWA), chairman, Board of Trustees, Northern Youth Assembly, (Majalisar Matasan Arewa) Fellow, Institute of Security and Strategic Studies, Fellow, Institute of International Peace and Secure Society, Fellow, Institute of Business Diplomacy and Financial Management, member, Commission of Inquiry on Missing persons, member, Implementation Committee, on the Recommendations of the Report of the Commission of inquiry on missing persons, member, Commission of Inquiry to investigate, various political violence and cases of missing persons, that occurred in the State from 2015 – 2023, member, Commission of inquiry to investigate protest, arson and destruction of public and private properties that occurred from 1st – 10th August, 2024 Amb. Waiya, served as Consultant on various government projects, such as: Kano State Security Trust Fund, Safe Corridor, Campaign against Drug Abuse, across the 44 Local Government Council Areas. Amb. Waiya”s active participation in peace building, policy advocacy and legislative reform has continued to impact positive change in Kano State, the North and Nigeria at large.

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Opinion

“I Transition to PR and Digital Marketing to Transform Brands Globally” – Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah

Published

7 days ago

on

December 15, 2024

By

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As 2024 comes to a close, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah reflects on his journey from journalism to public relations (PR) and digital marketing. With over a decade of experience in media and communications, Ibrahim’s transition was fueled by a desire to empower businesses—starting with Northern Nigeria but extending globally—to build impactful narratives and achieve sustainable growth.

“Every brand, regardless of location, deserves access to the tools and expertise needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced world,” Ibrahim says. “My goal has always been to bridge the gap in strategic communication, ensuring that no business is left behind.”

From Journalism to Strategic Communication

Ibrahim’s illustrious journalism career spans over a decade, during which he served as a Senior Reporter at TVC News, covering critical developments, including the Kano State Government House for three successive administrations. His work involved breaking major news stories, producing multimedia content, and engaging audiences through digital platforms.

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“I’ve always been passionate about communication, but I realized I wanted to do more than report stories—I wanted to help brands craft their own,” Ibrahim shares. “That’s what led me to pivot into PR and digital marketing.”

To equip himself for this new journey, Ibrahim pursued advanced studies, earning a Master’s in Communication Studies and a Master’s in Public Relations from Bayero University, Kano. He further honed his expertise with a Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing from the London School of Business Administration and a Master Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Digital Marketing Skills Institute. These credentials underscore his commitment to mastering the art of strategic communication.

Empowering Brands Through Ayrah Media Concept

As the CEO of Ayrah Media Concept (AMC), Ibrahim leads a PR and creative agency that provides businesses with tailored solutions, including PR consulting, social media management, corporate campaigns, and digital marketing.

“My vision is to empower brands to connect with their audiences, tell compelling stories, and achieve global relevance,” Ibrahim explains. “Through AMC, we’re showing businesses—whether in Northern Nigeria or beyond—that they can reach new heights with the right strategies.”

In 2024, AMC worked on several impactful campaigns, including Ibrahim’s role as a Lead Consultant for the WOFAN-ICON2 project in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, where he developed and executed PR and communication strategies to amplify the project’s impact.

Changing Perceptions and Building Bridges

Transitioning into PR and digital marketing came with challenges, including shifting perceptions about its value.

“Many businesses see PR and digital marketing as optional rather than essential,” Ibrahim says. “But the results are transformative. Strategic communication is not just about visibility; it’s about building trust, credibility, and lasting connections with your audience.”

This philosophy drives Ibrahim’s approach, ensuring that businesses of all sizes—whether local startups or established corporations—can access high-quality PR and marketing services.

Looking Ahead

Ibrahim’s vision for the future extends far beyond regional boundaries. While his roots and passion lie in Northern Nigeria, his focus is on creating strategies that resonate globally.

“Brands in Kano, Lagos, Abuja, or even New York share a common goal: to connect with people and make an impact,” he says. “My mission is to ensure that every business, regardless of size or location, has the tools and strategies to achieve that.”

In 2025, Ibrahim plans to document his professional journey in a book that will explore his experiences as a journalist and PR expert, offering insights into the evolving landscape of communication and its role in business success.

A Message of Gratitude

As he reflects on the year, Ibrahim expresses his gratitude to those who have supported his journey. “I’m incredibly thankful to my mentors, collaborators, and clients who have believed in my vision. Together, we’ve shown that impactful communication has the power to transform lives and businesses.”

With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah is poised to lead the way in redefining PR and digital marketing, not just in Nigeria but across the globe.

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