ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria needs urgent and fundamental reforms of its education system to prepare young people for the demands of the 21st century, according to scientist and talent development expert Dr. Simon Agwale.
Agwale, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Innovative Biotech Nigeria and Vice-Chair of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative, said Nigeria’s education system must move beyond its traditional emphasis on examinations and certificates.
He argued that schools should equip students with practical skills, critical thinking abilities, creativity, digital competence, strong values and the capacity to solve real-life problems.
Reform Should Begin at Primary Level
Agwale said meaningful education reform should begin at the primary school level, where the foundations for lifelong learning are established.
He called for policies that guarantee every Nigerian child access to quality basic education, regardless of geographical location or economic circumstances.
According to him, primary education should place greater emphasis on literacy, numeracy, science, communication, creativity and problem-solving.
He also advocated introducing children to digital literacy and responsible technology use from an early age.
The scientist said teaching methods should move away from excessive memorisation and instead encourage inquiry, experimentation, teamwork and practical learning.
He also called for greater investment in qualified and motivated teachers, functional classrooms, libraries, laboratories, reliable electricity, internet connectivity and appropriate learning materials.
Secondary Schools Should Develop Practical Skills
For secondary education, Agwale said curricula should increasingly reflect the skills required by Nigeria’s economy and society.
While maintaining strong foundations in mathematics, science, languages and the humanities, he recommended greater exposure to artificial intelligence, coding, biotechnology, agriculture, engineering, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, climate studies and vocational education.
He also challenged the perception that university education is the only pathway to success.
Agwale said secondary schools should provide stronger technical and vocational pathways in areas such as electrical and mechanical technology, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, ICT, healthcare support and renewable energy.
Such pathways, he said, should enable young people to move directly into employment, entrepreneurship, technical education or university.
Call for New Approach to Assessment
The scientist also advocated reform of Nigeria’s examination and assessment system.
He said students’ success should not depend almost entirely on high-stakes examinations. Instead, assessment should combine examinations with practical work, projects, continuous assessment, innovation, teamwork and problem-solving.
Technology, he added, could help expand access to quality education, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
Digital learning platforms could help address shortages of qualified teachers and provide students with access to quality educational resources. However, Agwale stressed that technology should support teachers rather than replace them.
Education Reform Linked to National Development
Beyond academic and technical skills, Agwale said Nigeria’s education system must promote character, citizenship, ethics, discipline, leadership and national responsibility.
He argued that the country needs young people who are not only knowledgeable but also innovative, ethical, productive and committed to contributing positively to society.
According to him, Nigeria’s ultimate objective should be to transform education from a certificate-driven system into one focused on knowledge, skills, innovation and productivity.
Agwale said Nigeria’s young population remains its greatest resource and that unlocking its potential through education is not merely an educational priority.
He described effective education reform as fundamental to the country’s economic development, technological advancement, national security and future competitiveness.
