Senator Sharafadeen Alli has decried the underfunding of the education sector, saying it is the bane of national growth, progress and development.
He also said infrastructural shortcomings are affecting many schools across the country, noting that numerous schools, especially in rural areas, lack essentials such as classrooms, libraries and laboratories.
The lawmaker representing Oyo South Senatorial District therefore said there is an urgent need for collaborative effort to reform the education sector.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker stated these, on Thursday, while speaking during the 18th LAUTECH Alumni Annual Lecture held at the institution’s Great Hall in Ogbomoso.
Alli, while delivering his lecture, titled “Revamping Nigeria’s Education: Addressing Challenges, Alumni Contributions and Funding Strategies”, talked on critical issues and potential solutions to revitalise the sector.
He called on alumni, government, stakeholders and private sector partners to play active roles in addressing the challenges facing the education sector.
Alli stressed that a thriving education sector is foundational to Nigeria’s progress. “Our education system is the cornerstone of national development, yet significant hurdles hold it back. Underfunding and inadequate infrastructure are key barriers to the educational growth,” he said.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s budget allocation for education was very low and well below the 26 per cent allocation, as recommended by UNESCO.
“Without adequate funding, particularly in rural schools, the quality of learning environments is compromised. This funding gap greatly impacts public institutions’ ability to offer quality education, “he said.
On the infrastructural shortcomings, Alli said overcrowded classrooms and inadequate facilities are limiting the effectiveness of education at all levels, underlining the need for substantial improvements.
The lawmaker argued that alumni could play a transformative role by contributing financially and offering mentorship.
He said, through scholarships, infrastructure support as well as career guidance, alumni can bridge gaps between education and the workforce.
“Alumni have the power to be change agents, supporting scholarships, mentorship and improving the educational landscape,” Alli declared.
The lawmaker also advocated for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), describing it as essential for educational reform.
Senator Alli suggested that private sector involvement could support infrastructure and provide learning resources, while PPPs could be instrumental in vocational training initiatives to improve students’ employability.
He restated that transforming Nigeria’s education system required united effort among the government, the private sector and alumni.
“Sustainable funding and collaboration are essential to ensure quality education is accessible to all. An educated populace is crucial for national advancement.
“With dedication and unity, we can build a high-quality education system that empowers our youth and secures Nigeria’s future,” he concluded.
