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Education

CATCHING THEM YOUNG’ THROUGH TECHNOLOGY TO STAY AHEAD OF COVID-19

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By KEHINDE TAIWO

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The coronavirus pandemic has adversely affected many countries in various ways; from the loss of lives to the congestion and exhaustion of health facilities, then the global economy which is not left out of the damage, dwindling various business and economic activities.

Many organisations have since resorted to alternative means of doing business, exploring remote working opportunities for staff including; virtual meetings, webinars and a host of other ways to ensure their adherence to the lockdown enforcement, thus limiting the physical interaction of people – one of the ways to control the spread of the virus. The ‘new normal’ has remained integral to ensuring the economy is not at a standstill, whilst the battle against the invincible enemy persists, a war that no one knows its end.

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The educational sector has not been left out of the fight against the coronavirus, with schools advised to remain closed until further notice due to the dangers it poses to a community spread at very high levels. According to the World Economic Forum, “there are currently more than 1.2 billion children in 186 countries affected by school closures due to the pandemic. In Denmark, children up to the age of 11 are returning to nurseries and schools after initially closing on 12 March, but in South Korea students are responding to roll calls from their teachers online.”

Nigeria is not left out of these numbers, as an estimated 46 million schoolchildren have been affected by the closure of schools on Monday 23 March 2020.

However, whilst a handful of schools – private – have the required infrastructure to ensure its academic activities and school calendar is not adversely affected, the majority are deficient of the needed facilities, restricted to remaining hopeful on when they would be directed to resume.

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Understanding the impact of education towards national development and the growth of any given economy, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, announced its support of the Lagos State government and Roducate e-learning initiative. The initiative was noted to include the government accredited curriculum for primary, secondary and tertiary schools designed to ensure children are adequately guided and engaged through their learning experience. 
This partnership is among the various ingredients by the Bank to help ensure the educational sector is not malnourished but reinforced to stay healthy for the school children, Another notable partnership in the bank’s resolve to move one million children to e-learning includes that with IBM, which is providing opportunities for the acquisition of digital skills including Coding, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science & Analytics which would promote opportunities to learn skills of the future. These measures are taken in identifying with the roles of children at securing the future of any country.
Reflecting on the words of Benjamin Franklin, thus ‘an investment in knowledge pays the best interest’ Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, CEO, FirstBank said “in keeping with who we are at FirstBank, our commitment to self-development and continuous improvement is never far from our thinking. As such we are encouraging all to consider and register for any of the excellent programmes being offered free by Ivy League schools and we are curating a list of them covering topics such as management, personal development, and entrepreneurship that would be provided in due course.

Another institution impacting education is Jos-based uLesson founded by Sim Shagaya. In an interview with techcabal, Shagaya noted that “when we launched, to solve the problem of data, we bundled our content into an SD card and dongle and shipped to the user,” Vice President, Marketing and Analytics, Al-Hassan Yusuf Junior said. “But because of COVID-19, we had to create a stream-only service for our customers.”

uLesson’s content database comprises over 3,000 richly animated, curriculum-based, personalized video learning modules, quizzes and tests in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology tailored to help students excel in continental examinations like the West African School Certificate Exams (WAEC), GCSE, SAT and more. 

Without these and other laudable support on the horizon, the problems posed by the lockdown are a threat to the educational sector in particular. Without the functioning of schools, the economy would be handicapped to explore imminent developmental opportunities. And in the current global age, infusing technology to the development of the child cannot be overemphasized and a compulsion to any meaningful government that takes the business of securing the future of its country.
This concern is in tandem with the phrase “catch them young”, a phrase I opine speaks to the curiosity of the essence of life and living by adolescents – school children – as they develop into adulthood. The teenage cycle of one is largely the defining moment in one’s behavioural pattern and attraction to ways of living which subconsciously become a lifestyle, as the child – notably teenager – is most vulnerable at this point and if not well guided is at risk of attitudinal dysfunction.

Times of India defines ‘catch them young’ as that phrase which expresses the desire of the adolescents as far as their demand for information, education and preventive programmes for enhancing positive sexual health and responsible behaviour is concerned”.

From these, I opine that the demand for information is central to the mould of a child’s behavioural pattern on all fronts as regards his or her development and with the internet being the primary source of information in the current age, children are indeed at risk of being misguided, losing focus, thus diminishing the essence of moral value.

The learning in one’s teenage years are most times manifested at adulthood, a scenario I would best illustrate with the popular computer terminology, GIGO; entailing the ‘Garbage In’ occurring at the adolescent phase and ‘Garbage Out’ at the adult phase.

At this point, the million-dollar questions to us are; as a parent, what is your child – especially the teenagers – exposed to and as an adolescent – be you a teenager or young adult – what are you exposed to?… Information indeed remains key to one’s growth and development until one’s final breath.

The internet means many things to different people, with each individual actively or transiently participating in various activities considered fun to him or her. Fun no doubt is relative!

But with today’s world being a global village, without the internet, one would be lost and subconsciously taken back to the stone-age.

What then is the Internet? According to the oxford learners dictionary, the internet is “an international computer network connecting other networks and computers from companies, universities, etc.”

The internet as a whole has indeed made the world less difficult, more fun, travelling one through the world with a press of the cell-phone screen. From the comfort of one’s bedroom, the internet could create a feeling of touring the world.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        
The advantages of being on the internet are unprecedented, with diverse benefits essential for ease of acclimatisation to all spheres of global activities; economically, sports, fashion and entertainment, business and of course, education.  Regardless of where one is, one has the world at one’s fingertips.

The internet has been instrumental to promoting the development of children and this period of the coronavirus, when schools are not in operation has created that opportunity for kids to develop themselves and learn various skills, thereby exploring various avenues for their continued growth.

In general, the internet and technology is a coin with two sides. Its advantages, amongst which are; it serves as a connecting point for trade – regardless of business size, it bridges the gap between people, whilst being a place where information and knowledge are easily accessed amongst others– irrespective of country, culture, age or distance.

On the other hand, its disadvantages are central to one’s distraction when abused, especially without close monitoring by parents and guardians. The negatives are indeed troubling and could change the course of a child’s life forever which is why it is very pivotal for parental guidance to be closely implemented by parents through this period. 

How well do you interact with your child, how often do you interact with your kids on opportunities on the internet for their continued growth, how often do you subtly check through your kids’ activities on the internet. These are just a tip of the iceberg in having children better shaped for the future.
As children spend more time, learning and exploring amazing ways of developing themselves, by activating parental guidance and control on mobile phones and computer devices, parents play the biggest role at ensuring the internet use is optimally maximised.

Without these, the child would be exposed to lots of misfits that could hinder his or her moral and educational development.

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Education

JUST IN: Government Shuts Down Lead British School Over Student’s Bully (VIDEO)

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JUST IN: Government Shuts Down Lead British School Over Student’s Bully (VIDEO)

JUST IN: Government Shuts Down Lead British School Over Student’s Bully (VIDEO)

 

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Sahara Weekly Reports That The Federal Government has reportedly shut down Lead British School following the bully of a student named Namitira in the Abuja-based institution.

 

 

 

JUST IN: Government Shuts Down Lead British School Over Student’s Bully (VIDEO)

 

 

 

 

Two videos showing the student reportedly named Namtira being manhandled went viral on social media on Tuesday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In one of the videos, the victim was seen being slapped repeatedly by another female student while asking “Who broke my heart?”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In another video, the victim was seen sitting next to a male classmate who was heard saying “I spoilt her relationship”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Furthermore, the minister of women affairs has visited the school to address the situation. In a follow up video recorded this morning, the culprit was seen being slapped by a woman who is said to be the victim’s aunty.

 

 

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NAUB: MR PRESIDENT, WHO ARE THOSE PLANNING TO KILL THE ONLY FEDERAL UNIVERSITY THAT DOES NOT GO ON STRIKE? By Femi Oyewale

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Why the merger of NAUB with NDA cannot work, the hard facts to consider'

NAUB: MR PRESIDENT, WHO ARE THOSE PLANNING TO KILL THE ONLY FEDERAL UNIVERSITY THAT DOES NOT GO ON STRIKE? By Femi Oyewale

 

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Sahara Weekly Reveals That Higher education in Nigeria, quite frankly, is facing immense challenges including but not limited to poor infrastructure, unrealistic academic calendars resulting in extra years against stipulated durations, lack of teaching equipment, social menace, poor funding, amongst others.

 

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NAUB: MR PRESIDENT, WHO ARE THOSE PLANNING TO KILL THE ONLY FEDERAL UNIVERSITY THAT DOES NOT GO ON STRIKE? By Femi Oyewale

 

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Interestingly, Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB) is quite unique from other federal universities in the sense that since inception, there has not been any issue of strike, cultism, protest, or anti-social conduct.

 

Rather, the university is reputed for its excellent condition of learning environment.

 

This was aptly covered by the Governor of Borno State, H.E Professor Babagana Umara Zulum through his deputy during the maiden edition of the convocation ceremony of NAUB on Saturday, October 28th, 2023 at the University’s main campus ( note not temporary campus within five years of existence) in Biu, Borno State.

 

 

The Borno State governor said he was physically present at the groundbreaking ceremony of the foundation laying stone of NAUB five years ago, and he is impressed by what he has seen adding that it must take military precision and focus to put in a full-fledged and functional university on a barren land in such a short period.

 

 

The Governor further thanked the Federal Government, the Nigerian Army, the traditional rulers, scholars and academics philanthropist, industrialists, associates and men and women of goodwill from within and outside Borno State for the selfless service of gradually re-modelling the future of Borno State in particular and Nigeria in general and for putting Borno State on the path of further greatness through the Nigerian Army university, Biu.

 

Why then do we plan to abort such a great independent institution of learning known as a barrier breaker and line crosser by merging it with NDA whose missions and visions are not in tandem with each other .

 

Why cut short the dreams of such noble ideas via politics?

 

Are there those who do not want a stable educational system in Nigeria?

Are there external forces or their agents at home trying to destroy a good foundation for a stable educational system in Nigeria?

 

Is NAUB in competition with the private universities?

Are there big shots who benefit from a chaotic educational system in Nigeria?

 

Are there some subterranean forces working within the system to achieve the Boko Haram objective that “education is sin”?

The words of Governor Zulum rings a wise bell when he said that Boko Haram insurgents have achieved their objectives if the university is scrapped.

“Therefore, we appeal to Mr. President to look into this issue so that the Army University Biu would remain a university… because of the importance of education in this part of the country, where Boko Haram is saying that education is forbidden. And I think that by allowing this Army university to be scrapped, they might have achieved one or two of their objectives,” he said.

 

The governor noted that, for over a decade, Borno State has been facing a serious crisis that has denied many children access to education.

“Therefore, this university is very important to not only the people of Borno State but our neighbouring states,” he said.

 

Look at the Western countries that started with military polytechnics that propelled revolution in military equipment development.

 

Many of these developed countries collaborated jointly through civil-military research.

The Swedish Defence University established like NAUB is Sweden’s leading resource in, and first choice for, education, training and research in the management of crisis, war and periods of tension in the leadership of both civil and military agencies. The Swedish Defence University is an accredited institution for academic education for military and civilian students and researchers where different experiences, approaches, and traditions come together. It has become a hub for both national and international students.

 

It might shock you to know that American Military University (AMU) and American Public University (APU). APUS is wholly owned by American Public Education, Inc., a publicly traded private-sector corporation that offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees, in addition to dual degrees, certificate programs and learning tracks.

 

During my NYSC, I served in the Nigerian Army School of Education (NASE), Ilorin, which is a renowned military institution focused on providing high-quality education and training for Nigerian Army personnel and civilians. So why the proposed merger of NAUB?

 

Interestingly, the Nigerian Army University Biu provides such a platform for the Nigerian military towards technological innovation, research, and development in varied fields for national defence and security breakthroughs like many modern nations. In fact, instead of downgrading the Nigerian Army University, many more Army universities should be established in Nigeria. That is the way out for a caricature type of educational system that has failed to have stability over the years.

 

Who is not interested in seeing that a federal university graduates its students within the regular course time frame?

 

Must programmes of all federal universities be easily disrupted. A course of 4 or 5 years ends up taking over 6 to 7 years to complete. The worst part is that many universities end up in a crash programme to be able to cover up for the lost times. The terrible damage to these universities’ products is the very low standard of graduates.

 

Who wants the Nigerian educational system to collapse completely? These are rhetorical questions the amiable president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all stakeholders should ask those proposing the merger to answer us publicly, else should let the matter die forever in the abyss of hasty decision.

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Edo State University Uzairue Matriculates 1,245 Students By Elvis Omoregie

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Edo State University Uzairue Matriculates 1,245 Students By Elvis Omoregie

Edo State University Uzairue Matriculates 1,245 Students

By Elvis Omoregie

 

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The Edo State University, Uzairue have matriculated 1,245 students who met the condition for admission criteria for the 2023/2024 academic session.

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Edo State University Uzairue Matriculates 1,245 Students

By Elvis Omoregie

 

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Speaking during the 9th matriculation ceremony of the institution at Iyamho, Etsako West Local Government of Edo state, the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof Emmanuel Aluyor, charged the newly admitted students to adhere to the university’s regulations and contribute responsibly to the institution.

“Dear Matriculants, approach your studies with dedication and make full use of the state-of-the-art technological equipment and ICT facilities available for your academic advancement. Embark on a studious academic journey, making the serene environment of Edo State University Uzairue your conducive home for success.’

He said the University, in partnership with the Edo State Government, is devoted to consistently providing world class teaching and research facilities.

sharing the remarkable progress the institution has achieved over the past eight years, said its humble beginnings with three Faculties and Eight programs, Edo State University Uzairue has grown to encompass nine faculties with over 30 undergraduate programmes”.

He added that all the programmes offered at the institution have been accredited and approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other the relevant professional bodies.

Aluyor said the College of Post Graduate Studies of the institution stands out for its successful programs, encompassing PGD, Masters, MBA, MPA, Mphil, and Ph.D. across different Faculties.

“Having graduated five sets of students, our accreditation processes have consistently yielded impressive grades, With the lowest recorded score being 78.5 per cent’

He explained that through collaborative partnerships with international Universities such as Worcester State University (USA) and the University of Sunderland (UK), students benefit from valuable opportunities to engage in exchange programs.

“The establishment of the institution Teaching Hospital with the support of the State Government, marks a significant stride, enhancing our facilities for medical students’ training.

Aluyor noted that the institution runs an uninterrupted academic calendar leading to its recognition as the best University in the South-South geo-political zone, 2nd Best State University in the country and 10th Best University in Nigeria by the National University Commission (NUC) System Ranking 2022.

“Edo State University is the 1st in West Africa to adopt the CANVAS Learning Management System, used by over 70 percent of ivy League Universities globally”.

He added ” it is the first to acquire the Anatomy table and low and high fidelity Manikins (Simman 3g), which enables the simulation of different scenarios for the training of Medical and Nursing Students”.

He said the institution placed on discipline and adherence to the approved academic calendar, with a commitment to addressing any instances of errant behavior.

Prof Aluyor however called on well meaning individuals and corporate organisations to generously contribute prizes for students of the institution who demonstrate excellence in their respective fields.

In his goodwill message, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly Hon. Inegbebor O. Eugene advised the students to be serious with their academic pursuit and make their parents proud by graduating with good grades

“The university is not a place to come to waste your time but to improve yourself, it is not all about getting the certificate but about going through the university and allowing the institution to go through you”.

He advised the students not to disappoint their parents by focusing on their studies and making the best use of the opportunity to graduate with good grades.

Hon. Inegbebor further stated that he will discuss with the Hon speaker, RT. Hon Blessing Agbebaku to see how Edo State House could institute a prize for the best graduating student in the university.

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