In a recent convocation lecture at the University of Calabar, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, emphasized the urgent need for Nigerian universities to bridge the gap between academic theories and real-world applications.
His lecture, titled “Our Gown in Town and in Cyberspace: Sustainable and Human-Centred Education, The Mandate of Our Universities, 2025-2075,” highlighted the critical role of higher education institutions in driving societal progress.
Kalu pointed out that universities were established as engines of progress but often fail to deliver on their core mandate due to a disconnect between academia and everyday life. He argued that this misalignment stems from an overemphasis on academic metrics rather than tangible societal impact. He stated, “The challenge before us is clear: our universities must move beyond theory to practical impact, bringing the ‘gown’ into the ‘town’—and now, into cyberspace—where knowledge is applied and ideas ignite change.”
Highlighting the importance of community engagement, Kalu questioned how many university projects directly address local challenges such as power, healthcare, water access, food security, or transportation. He emphasized that if universities do not first serve their own communities, their achievements risk remaining confined to ivory towers. “Our research must offer tangible solutions, while graduates must be equipped to address real issues,” he asserted.
Kalu also underscored the necessity of integrating technology into education, advocating for curricula that reflect current technological advancements. He cited examples such as agriculture students mastering drone mapping for pest control and medical schools integrating telemedicine and AI. “When the gown mirrors the town’s needs, productivity follows,” he noted.
Furthermore, he called for a review of Nigeria’s quota system in education, advocating a shift from geographic to gender-based quotas to empower women. Kalu highlighted research indicating critical disparities in STEM fields across African universities, with women more likely to drop out and face persistent challenges.
In conclusion, Kalu’s address serves as a clarion call for Nigerian universities to evolve into institutions that not only impart knowledge but also actively contribute to societal development through practical solutions, technological integration, and inclusive policies.
About the Author
