Lifelong Learning Key To Nigeria Productivity, Economic Security – Don Advise Stakeholders

…… As UNIOSUN Holds 16th Foundation Lecture

A retired Professor of Fish Nutrition, Professor Adebisi Balogun, has enjoined key stakeholders in the Nigerian polity to formulate novel policies that would not only sustain the rich, but also empower the poor, if the nation is to attain a knowledge-based society with equal opportunities for all.

Professor Balogun, who is an erstwhile Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Akure, FUTA, recommended this while delivering the 16th Foundation Day Lecture of Osun State University, on Wednesday, 27th September, 2023, at the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Auditorium, Osogbo Main Campus.

Speaking on the 16th Foundation Day theme titled “Building Knowledge-based Society for Equal Opportunity to Sustain the Rich and Empower the Poor”, the Guest Lecturer surmised that lifelong learning is pertinent to assure economic viability of the nation. He advised investment be made in the Nigerian citizenry, as they are the most important resource of the nation.

In his words, the Guest Lecturer said “To sustain the rich and empower the poor in the new envisaged knowledge-based society, where jobs are to be driven by technology and information, lifelong learning is key to ensuring that Nigeria continues to be productive, globally competitive and economically secure. The country’s success would require all stakeholders to respond to new challenges and pursue lifelong learning opportunities.

“This is a national challenge that no single government can achieve alone. To achieve this goal, Nigeria must continue to collaborate with other nations of the world, global partners, institutions, civil societies, businesses and labour groups. A country’s most important resource is its human capital. In order for Nigeria to move forward and be strong, the country must invest in its citizens, ensuring that no member of the society is left behind in knowledge development,” the Lecturer added.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Professor Olawale Oladipo, in his keynote address thanked the Guest Lecturer for the thought-provoking lecture, and admonished the academic leaders in the University to mentor their underlings to continue the trend of excellence the University is being renowned for.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor ‘Ayo Clement Adebooye, appreciated the University’s founding fathers for pioneering what has grown to be a globally-competitive citadel of learning. He also charged forthcoming generations to lay on the foundation that had been built to take the University to greater heights.

• Yusuf Oketola