Summary of Sonny Iroche’s Keynote Address at the 64th Founders’ Day of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (October 9, 2024)
In his keynote address, Sonny Iroche, an alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), delivered a compelling call to action to revitalize Nigeria’s education sector, with a focus on addressing systemic challenges and preparing for future technological advancements. Speaking at his alma mater, Iroche reflected on UNN’s historical significance, its founding vision inspired by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, and its post-Nigeria-Biafra war recovery, while emphasizing the urgent need for reform to restore its legacy of excellence.
Key Points:
1. Decline in Educational Standards:
• Iroche highlighted the decline in Nigeria’s public education system due to low budgetary allocations (7.9% of the 2024 budget), outdated curricula, dilapidated infrastructure, and underqualified educators. He stressed the need for sustainable policies and accountability to reverse this trend.
2. Centralized Admissions and Quota System:
• The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the quota system were criticized for creating inequities by favoring applicants from “educationally disadvantaged” states, undermining meritocracy. Iroche advocated for decentralizing admissions to allow universities to set their own criteria and for a review of the quota system to prioritize excellence.
3. Funding Crisis:
• Nigeria’s low per capita spending on education ($23, with $9 from the federal government) has left universities underfunded, unable to support basic amenities or research. Iroche called for increased investment to fuel intellectual and economic growth.
4. Academic Misconduct:
• Issues like “sex for marks” and financial gratification undermine academic integrity. Iroche proposed anonymous marking systems, such as the Autonomous Students Assessment Management System (SAMS), to protect students and ensure fairness.
5. ASUU Strikes:
• Frequent strikes by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) due to funding, salary, and infrastructure issues disrupt academic calendars, lower education quality, and contribute to brain drain. Iroche urged for lasting solutions through government negotiations.
6. Vision for Reform:
• Alumni Involvement: Iroche called on UNN alumni to support their alma mater through a proposed University of Nigeria Restoration Endowment Fund to finance scholarships, research, and infrastructure.
• Igbo Entrepreneurial Apprentice Studies: He suggested establishing a School of Igbo Entrepreneurial Apprentice Studies to research and modernize the Igbo apprenticeship model with technology and global financial insights.
• Collegiate System: Iroche recommended exploring a decentralized collegiate system, inspired by Oxford and Cambridge, to enhance UNN’s structure.
• Executive Education: Introducing executive programs for professionals to generate revenue, foster industry ties, and enhance UNN’s reputation.
• Sustainable Farming: Establishing a UNN Farm Ltd. to produce food sustainably for the campus and surrounding communities, inspired by models like Cornell University.
• Renewable Energy: Exploring solar and wind energy to reduce UNN’s reliance on costly electricity from the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).
• Regional Integration: Proposing an Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation (ENDC) to foster economic, educational, and cultural cooperation among states in the former Eastern Region.
7. Embracing Technology and AI:
• Iroche emphasized preparing students for the Fourth Industrial Revolution by integrating AI, robotics, and STEM into curricula. He advocated for interdisciplinary courses, hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and discussions on AI’s ethical implications to ensure graduates are competitive in a tech-driven world.
8. Advancement Board and Centers of Excellence:
• Repositioning UNN’s Advancement Board to enhance fundraising and alumni engagement, establishing research centers in medicine and health sciences, and offering consulting services to the banking, financial services, and insurance sectors to boost relevance and revenue.
9. Restoring Values and Infrastructure:
• Iroche stressed rebuilding infrastructure, addressing lecturer misconduct, and tackling vices like corruption and academic dishonesty. He advocated for fostering a culture of integrity, inclusivity, and innovation to prepare students for global challenges.
Call to Action:
NB: Iroche urged alumni, faculty, students, and stakeholders to unite in restoring UNN’s legacy as a beacon of knowledge and innovation. By addressing funding, ethical, and technological challenges, UNN can lead Nigeria’s educational revitalization, ensuring it remains a hub of academic excellence and societal impact.
