At the 2024 valedictory ceremony of Command Day Secondary School in Ibadan on Wednesday, Professor Kehinde Kester, a professor of Adult Education at the University of Ibadan, urged the government to urgently address the issue of funding in Nigeria’s education sector. As the guest speaker, he emphasised the need for immediate intervention.
While speaking at the event, Professor Kester stated that Nigeria has reached a crucial point where government financial intervention is necessary, specifically to support the education sector.
Professor Kester highlighted that Nigerian public schools are facing severe financial challenges, with much of the infrastructure in disrepair. The quality of public schools has significantly declined compared to what it was in the 1970s, 80s, and even 90s. Therefore, he urges the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the Nigerian educational system, with a particular focus on public education, especially higher institutions.
Speaking to the graduating students, he encouraged them to view this moment as just the beginning of their journey in life. He stressed the importance of staying focused, avoiding shortcuts, and being honest in their actions to avoid jeopardising their future, as their present choices will have lasting consequences.
He urged them to remain focused, set clear goals, and choose role models to guide their lives toward a brighter future. He also emphasised the value of supporting one another and the importance of remembering their families, especially their parents, as crucial figures in their lives.
Remarks from the Global President
Mr Olumide Agboola, the global president of the Command Day Secondary School Alumni Association, highlighted the government’s crucial role in supporting education. He pointed out that the government has a significant responsibility that has yet to be fully met in the education sector. Specifically, he emphasised the need to address gaps in ICT infrastructure, especially in an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI), technological advancements, and computer intelligence, and expressed his belief that these gaps can be bridged.
While acknowledging the support his association has been providing to the school as a way of giving back, he urged the students to maintain the relationships they have built during their time in school and to stay ambitious.
A vital moment of the event was the presentation of awards, prizes, and scholarships by the alumni to teachers and students from all classes.
Representatives from the Nigerian Army Education Corps, the commandant, Oyo State government officials, and a royal dignitary attended the event
