The National Universities Commission (NUC) is addressing the pressing need for expanded access to higher education in Nigeria. With only 272 universities, both public and private, the country faces challenges meeting the growing demand for quality education. Recognizing this, NUC has outlined strategic priorities aimed at bolstering the university system.
Among these priorities are curriculum development, quality assurance, research promotion, infrastructure upgrades, and internationalization efforts. Notably, NUC has updated the curriculum to align with Nigeria’s vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy, emphasizing 21st-century skills and expanding academic disciplines from 14 to 17.
The implementation of this new curriculum commenced in September 2023, accompanied by training for lecturers on student-centered teaching methods and the development of new learning materials. These efforts signify a comprehensive revamp of the education system.
However, challenges persist, particularly in reconstituting governing councils for public universities. Chris Maiyaki, the Acting Executive Secretary of NUC, acknowledges these challenges and urges patience from stakeholders as the government works to address them.
Additionally, NUC has introduced guidelines for transnational education, e-learning, open educational resources, and private open universities. These initiatives aim to foster collaboration with foreign institutions and enhance the quality of education available in Nigeria.
Overall, NUC’s strategic initiatives signal a promising direction for Nigeria’s university system. With a focus on expansion, curriculum enhancement, and embracing innovative teaching methods, the country is set to make significant strides in higher education.
