Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for the prioritization of skills acquisition over traditional certificates in higher institutions to accelerate the country’s development and equip citizens for the demands of the modern world.
He was speaking at the 25th-anniversary celebration of Igbinedion University, Okada (IUO), in Edo State, where he reflected on his tenure and advocated for progressive ideas and women’s empowerment. Jonathan, who served as President of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015, lamented that some of the forward-thinking initiatives he championed during his presidency were abandoned after his tenure ended.
Recalling the challenges he faced during his presidency, Jonathan noted that despite the obstacles, he was able to implement significant changes, particularly in promoting gender equality.
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He highlighted the barriers faced by women in various career fields, particularly in the military, and cited his directive to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to admit women as a pivotal moment. Despite resistance, Jonathan said he exerted his authority as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces to ensure the implementation of this directive, paving the way for women to become integral members of the military, with some excelling as jet fighters.
He said: “I recall the challenges faced by women in the military. But as President, I directed that the Nigerian Defence Academy commence admission of women into the institution.
However, Jonathan expressed disappointment that some of his ideas aimed at advancing the technological development of the country were abandoned after his presidency. He attributed this to resistance from certain quarters, underscoring the challenges of pushing forward progressive agendas in Nigeria’s political landscape.
In addition to advocating for progressive policies, Jonathan called for a recalibration of the nation’s education curriculum, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing skills acquisition and technology over traditional certificates. He asserted that a focus on practical skills would accelerate the country’s development and equip citizens for the demands of the modern world.
However, Jonathan condemned the prevalence of cultism and bullying in the nation’s lower school system, urging government intervention to eradicate these menaces and create safer learning environments for students.
Acknowledging the pivotal role played by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, in approving the establishment of Igbinedion University, Jonathan expressed gratitude for his contribution to the country’s democratic journey. He also commended Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Founder of Igbinedion University, for his vision and courage in establishing the institution, which has since become a beacon of excellence in Nigeria’s education sector.
General Abdulsalami, in his remarks, praised Chief Igbinedion for his foresight in establishing the university and thanked the Okada community for their support in fostering peace and stability within the university’s environs.
The celebration of IUO’s 25th anniversary was marked by the cutting of a commemorative cake, symbolizing the university’s journey of growth and excellence. Deputy Pro-Chancellor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, highlighted the institution’s achievements over the past 25 years, including the graduation of over 60,000 students.
Jonathan’s call for skills-based education resonates with a growing global belief that the labor market requires just the right skills, not certificates that in many instances, do not translate to productivity.
In 2020, Elon Musk, the founder and CEO of corporate innovation giants Tesla and SpaceX, said he does not care about degrees when hiring, noting that skills matter more than diplomas and degrees issued by schools.
“A PhD is definitely not required,” Musk wrote. “Don’t care if you even graduated high school.” The billionaire entrepreneur added: “I think college is basically for fun and to prove that you can do your chores, but they’re not for learning.”
Musk’s sentiment has fueled debate around this subject as the world is notably shifting toward a skills-based economy.