The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, has reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to strategic partnerships aimed at transforming Nigeria’s educational landscape. She welcomed collaboration in key areas such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), quality education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), girl-child education, tackling out-of-school children, and integrating Almajiri education into the formal system.
Prof. Ahmad made these remarks during a strategic dialogue session between Loughborough University, UK, and the Federal Ministry of Education, convened to explore pathways for impactful collaboration in the education sector.
Highlighting six priority areas in need of urgent intervention, she noted that although Nigeria has made significant strides in education, persistent gaps remain. She emphasized that while research and innovation efforts exist, the lack of practical application of research findings continues to impede educational progress. She then called for further collaboration on impactful research.
Prof. Ahmad further disclosed the formation of a special committee on Transnational Education (TNE), acknowledging the growing presence of foreign-affiliated institutions in Nigeria. She expressed satisfaction with the dialogue’s scope and depth, assuring that the Ministry would act decisively on its outcomes.
Earlier, Professor Sam Grogan, Pro-Chancellor of Loughborough University, presented the university’s academic strengths, highlighting its top-tier UK ranking, emphasis on health and wellbeing, and world-class sports infrastructure. He then extended the hand of fellowship for collaboration with Nigeria
The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), represented by Mr. Chris Maiyaki, Deputy Executive Secretary (Administration), stressed the importance of compliance with national educational standards and frameworks.
The dialogue concluded with interactive sessions that addressed shared concerns and laid a strong foundation for future collaboration between Nigeria and Loughborough University.
Signed
Boriowo Folasade
Director Press and PR
