Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Wednesday called for the effective redesign of academic curricula to equip graduates with the technical know-how to become job and wealth creators.
Oborevwori made the call at the 4th Founder’s Day Celebration of the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor. The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, delivered a lecture on the topic “Nation Building: The Search For A Nigeria That Works For All.” Oborevwori was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme.
The governor highlighted that quality, functional education is a key priority in his administration’s MORE agenda. He emphasized that education should not only impart knowledge but also shape character, foster creativity, and provide students with the skills and mindset required to excel in the global marketplace.
Oborevwori criticized the current educational system, noting that it mainly prepares graduates for salaried employment. He called for a shift towards including technical and vocational education in academic curricula from primary school onward, urging UNIDEL to ensure that its graduates are equipped to be job and wealth creators.
He further stressed the importance of collaboration and continuous improvement in the educational system, encouraging active participation from educators, administrators, and stakeholders to create a thriving education system in Delta State.
The governor also acknowledged the achievements of the previous administration under Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, particularly in establishing the university, which has provided hope for many school leavers. He noted that 4,500 new students were admitted to the university this academic session, and the institution had received accreditation for 71 out of its 74 academic programs.
Oborevwori praised the university’s progress and called for the establishment of endowment funds to finance long-term goals, scholarships, and research initiatives. He also emphasized the need for practical, hands-on training for medical students, including the establishment of medical hostels and converting community health facilities into teaching hospitals.
Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, in his lecture, commended the Oborevwori administration for continuing to develop the state’s universities and ensuring they grow in student enrollment and infrastructure.
The Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Nwanze, and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, expressed their gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his support in advancing the education sector.
