By Gabrella Ogbu
The acting executive secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Mr. Chris Maiyaki, reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to revitalizing Nigerian universities to elevate the quality of graduates for global competitiveness and to expand access to higher education across the country.
Maiyaki made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the German Parliament, led by Mr. Kai Gehring, Chairman of the Committee for Education, Research, and Technology Assessment, accompanied by Ms. Nina Rehman, Ms. Renate Lydia Wolf, Mr. Matthias Dold from the Political Embassy of Germany, and Ms. Uduak-Abasi Akpabio.
The German delegation’s visit included sessions on international programs at various colleges and selection interviews for Nigerian candidates eligible for the International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS).
Highlighting the collaborative efforts between Nigeria and Germany in higher education, Maiyaki emphasized the ongoing reforms initiated by the Federal Government through the NUC to enhance the university system’s caliber and inclusivity.
Providing an overview of Nigeria’s university education evolution, Maiyaki traced its origins from the establishment of the University of Ibadan (UI) in 1948, modeled after University College London, with subsequent institutions following suit.
He detailed the NUC’s recent initiatives, including the introduction of Transnational Education (TNE) guidelines and a revised curriculum for the Nigerian University System (NUS) aimed at aligning with global educational standards.
Despite the annual influx of approximately two million university applicants, Nigeria’s capacity currently accommodates only between 500,000 and 700,000 students, underscoring the growing demand for higher education in the country.
Maiyaki underscored the NUC’s role in ensuring quality assurance and its authority in establishing private institutions and setting academic standards, noting the rigorous process involved in licensing private universities.
Addressing gender equality in higher education, Maiyaki highlighted Nigeria’s initiatives to promote women’s participation and contributions to national development.
Expressing appreciation for Germany’s scholarship programs benefiting Nigerian students, Maiyaki commended Germany’s investments in workforce development and welfare systems, while advocating for expanded opportunities for Nigerian youth.
In response, Mr. Kai Gehring reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to international education initiatives, including the IPS aimed at providing young people from diverse backgrounds with internship opportunities at the German Parliament.
Gehring praised Nigeria’s achievements in higher education and expressed admiration for the strides made by the Nigerian University System (NUS), emphasizing shared values and mutual learning between Nigeria and Germany.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to further collaboration in educational exchange programs and the continued enhancement of academic standards and opportunities for Nigerian students.
