Stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector have called for the urgent integration of modern industrial demands into undergraduate training to enhance graduates’ employability and practical competence. They made the call during the launch of the African Pro-Humanity Technology Hub (APHTH) and the unveiling of a book titled “Tower of Hope, Halls of Despair: A Journey through Nigeria’s University System”, authored by Dr. Adam Muritala, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.
Speaking at the event, which held on Wednesday at the African Centre of Excellence, OAU, Dr. Muritala described the book as a mirror and a roadmap for reforming Nigeria’s higher education system. He said the work explores the historical and systemic challenges confronting universities, particularly the disconnect between academic training and industrial relevance. “For many years, universities have been plagued by strikes, and graduates who should be job creators have become job seekers,” he lamented, adding that the book also proposes practical solutions for long-term reform.
Dr. Muritala, who also serves as Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at OAU, said the newly established technology hub aims to bridge the gap between research, innovation, and real-world applications. He explained that the initiative would promote indigenous technologies and AI-driven education to prepare Nigerian youths for the realities of a technology-driven economy. “In Nigerian academia, we have not been able to align university training with industrial needs. This disconnect has widened the gap between classroom knowledge and industry practice,” he noted.
The twin event drew prominent scholars, policymakers, innovators, and traditional leaders, underscoring its national significance. The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) received the Friend of Humanity Award for championing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria, while Barrister Ahmed Raji, Chief Saheed Oladele, and Chief Zakariyah were also honoured for their humanitarian contributions to education and community development.