The former Vice Chancellor of Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU) and Chairman Abia State Scholarship Board, Professor Samuel Okoronkwo Igwe has called for attitudinal change towards education.
Speaking at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) during a courtesy call to the institution’s Prof. Igwe said the negative attitude to education is one of the reasons why students come out with certificates which they can never be proud of.
He insisted that there is nothing like falling standard of education in Nigeria as widely held, rather the problem with the system is the negative approach to it.
The University Don points out the bad attitude of Nigerians towards education, and expressed worry that university certificates can now be bought for our children, people sat for JAMB, WASSCE for our children and they come out with certificates they cannot defend.
“I recall that the facilities used in the olden days for learning are not better off than the modern facilities today.
“I am of the opinion that the present day learning facilities are very sound and solid with a wider curriculum which readily meet the needs of students/pupils today and also teachers are better equipped to meet and handle any challenge.
“I call for attitudinal change towards education, and I appeal to students to allow the system pass through them.
“Let us take it easy, we should not bastardise our education because It is not ideal to parade with certificates which you cannot defend because you will be a shame to the system.
“I want to recommend that we always recognise and promote excellence in education especially among those dedicated to teaching as well as provide a reasoned voice for significant issues and link learning communities of educators.
“The time is apt to exhibit the ideals of scholarship, integrity in service and commitment to excellence in teaching and its allied profession.
Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) Professor Francis Ogbonnaya Otunta has harped on the urgent need to make people who have made outstanding contributions to the development of professional education to lead the society.
