‘Open Forum’ submits position paper on Akwa Ibom University of Education Bill

The Open Forum Care for Humanity Foundation has submitted its position paper on the Bill for the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State University of Education.

The paper, presented during a public hearing at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, outlines the organization’s observations, recommendations, and advocacies on the proposed university.

The decision to upgrade the College of Education Afaha Nsit to a University of Education is commendable.

However, Open Forum recommends that the proposed university incorporate skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training, considering the global shift towards practical skills and the advent of Artificial Intelligence.

“A state-of-emergency should be declared in the education sector and the Akwa Ibom Strategic Education Roadmap (AKSER) 2020 – 2030 should be implemented and the Phase 2 of the roadmap should be paid for and actualized for optimum result,” the organization stated.

The organization suggests renaming the university to reflect its focus on skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, proposing options such as University of Education and Entrepreneurial Development, University of Education and Enterprise, or University of Education and Innovation.

Open Forum advocates for the implementation of the Akwa Ibom Strategic Education Roadmap (AKSER) 2020 – 2030, which was adopted by the previous administration but later abandoned.

The organization emphasizes the need for a coordinated approach to education, highlighting the importance of skill acquisition and vocational training.

The Dakaada Skill Acquisition Centre, Ikot Ada Idem, should be adopted as a campus of the proposed university, leveraging its existing infrastructure and expertise in vocational training.

According to the organization, “Skill acquisition is the surest way for sustainable development and the passport to a flight away from poverty and unemployment to a safe landing of personal development.”

Open Forum recommends the separation of tertiary education from the Ministry of Education, proposing that all tertiary institutions be placed under the Office of the Deputy Governor.

The organization also advocates for the review of the school curriculum to include critical thinking and vocational training from primary to secondary schools, preparing students for admission into the university’s skill acquisition and entrepreneurship programs.

The position paper was received by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly during the public hearing, and copies have been delivered to the Governor and Commissioner for Education for their attention and necessary action.

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