A forward-thinking educational initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Olushola Adeborode Kolawole (OAK) of the University of Bradford, has been launched across two Nigerian universities—Ekiti State University and Babcock University—with the aim of reshaping university education through the integration of entrepreneurship, circular economy, and peace-building into the curriculum.

Backed by the British Council, the project—“Curriculum Development on Entrepreneurship, Circular Economy and Peace-building in Nigeria”—is designed to equip Nigerian students with global perspectives and practical tools for driving sustainable development and societal stability.

Dr. Kolawole, who lectures in Business Data Analytics, Circular Economy, and Entrepreneurship, described the initiative as a bold step toward reimagining education in Africa. Speaking at a recent curriculum workshop in Lagos, which brought together scholars, curriculum designers, and education stakeholders, he emphasized the urgency of empowering future leaders with the right academic foundation.

“We must equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools to build resilient economies, promote peace, and champion sustainable development. This project is a significant step toward that future,” he said.

The curriculum workshop marked a key milestone in the project, enabling collaborative design of a new academic framework rooted in local realities while aligned with global educational standards. Among the experts involved in the initiative are Professor Kenneth Omeje (Project Consultant, International University, UK), Dr. Joseph Danquah (Associate Lead, University of Bradford), Professor Taiwo Owoeye (Institutional Lead, Ekiti State University), and Professor Adesoga Adefulu (Institutional Lead, Babcock University).

As part of the implementation, both universities will also receive textbooks and academic resources to support teaching and research in these newly integrated subject areas. A major publication is in the works—a pan-African textbook co-edited by Dr. Kolawole and Prof. Omeje, set for release by the end of 2026. The book will feature African case studies and context-specific insights that demonstrate how circular economy principles and peace-building strategies can be effectively applied across the continent.

The initiative promises far-reaching impact—not just by transforming how entrepreneurship and sustainability are taught, but by cultivating a generation of peace-conscious, innovation-driven graduates ready to tackle local and global challenges.

It also aligns with Nigeria’s growing push to internationalise its higher education system and foster academic collaboration between Nigerian institutions and global partners, particularly in the UK.

With a combination of academic rigor, local relevance, and global vision, the project sets the stage for a transformative shift in Nigerian university education—one that prepares students not only to succeed in business but to lead change in their communities and beyond.