Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has raised concerns about the position of African universities in global rankings, warning that the continent could struggle to achieve major technological and industrial growth without stronger investment in education.
Jonathan made the remarks while delivering a lecture at the National Defence College in Abuja on the theme of industrial capacity, inclusive growth and regional stability in Africa.
According to Jonathan, Africa has enormous potential because of its large population, young people and abundant natural resources. However, he said these advantages alone would not automatically lead to prosperity.
He stressed that education, specialised training and human capital development must become major priorities for African governments.
Jonathan expressed particular concern about the performance of African universities in global rankings. He said the situation showed the urgent need for African countries to review and improve their education systems.
The former president argued that Africa needs more specialised institutions capable of producing highly skilled professionals in areas such as science, technology, engineering and information technology.
He warned that the world is changing rapidly because technology is becoming increasingly important to economic development. According to him, Africa cannot afford to remain behind while other regions continue to invest heavily in innovation and advanced skills.
Jonathan also pointed to countries such as Singapore and India as examples of how deliberate investment in education and specialised training can contribute to national development.
He explained that countries with limited natural resources have been able to build strong economies by investing in the knowledge and skills of their citizens.
For Africa, he said the continent’s young population could become one of its greatest strengths if governments create the right opportunities.
The former president urged African leaders to focus on developing the abilities of young people rather than depending mainly on the continent’s natural resources.
Africa is rich in minerals, oil, agricultural land and other resources. However, Jonathan said the continent must improve its ability to process and transform those resources into valuable products.
Instead of exporting raw materials and importing finished goods, African countries need stronger industries that can create jobs and generate more wealth.
He also stressed that technological development should play a central role in Africa’s industrial future.
From artificial intelligence and information technology to engineering and advanced manufacturing, countries around the world are increasingly competing through innovation.
Jonathan warned that Africa could miss important opportunities if urgent action is not taken to improve human capital.
The former president said transforming Africa’s education and industrial sectors would not happen overnight. However, he believes progress is possible if African leaders remain committed to long-term investment and development.
He also encouraged emerging leaders and policymakers to support programmes that promote innovation, education and industrial growth.
Jonathan’s comments have once again drawn attention to a major question facing the continent: how can Africa transform its large youth population into a highly skilled workforce capable of competing globally?
For many experts, improving universities, supporting research and creating specialised training institutions could be an important part of the answer.
As Africa continues to push for industrialisation and economic independence, education is likely to remain at the centre of the continent’s development plans.
Jonathan’s message is clear: Africa has the people, resources and potential to grow, but without serious investment in knowledge and skills, the continent could struggle to keep up with the rapidly changing global economy.
