
In response to the escalating challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector, stakeholders are urging the government, businesses, and development institutions to initiate bold reforms to revive the struggling system. This call was made at the inaugural Festival of Change in Lagos, organized by The Erioluwa Adeyinka Co-Creation Hub, themed REVIVE: Reimagining What the Government, Business, and Development Sector Need to Do to Revive Education.
The event, which attracted over 100 participants, emphasized the urgency of creating inclusive spaces to address the education emergency declared by the African Union.
Festival convener, Erioluwa Adeyinka, underscored the importance of mindset and collaboration in nurturing a thriving society, stating, “Education in Nigeria may not be at its best, but with dedication and collaboration from all sectors and stakeholders, we can elevate it to where it needs to be—one heart at a time.” Adeyinka identified three pillars crucial for national development: effective government policy, socio-economic stability, and quality education.
The event featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, pitch contests, and educational virtual reality experiences. Notable speakers, including Oluwaseun Kayode, Victoria Oladipo, and Julius Ilori, shared insights to inspire action. Oladipo highlighted the role of businesses in education, noting, “Education is not a cost, but an investment. When businesses invest in education, they get better, well-equipped people in their workforce.”
A pitch session showcased innovative ideas to address educational challenges, with Ms. Oyindasola Adams winning first place, followed by Ms. Obasola Temitope and Mr. Joshua John in second and third place, respectively.
Praise Mbanali, another speaker, emphasized the need for collective efforts to solve the education crisis, while Oluwaseun Kayode added, “Education is a nation on its own, and not just access should be funded, but also quality.”
The event successfully brought together thought leaders and changemakers, paving the way for ongoing discussions on educational reform.