Strengthening Oversight in the Education Sector
The federal government has taken significant steps to enhance oversight within the education sector, addressing long-standing issues such as funding gaps, infrastructural deficits, and outdated curricula in public institutions. These efforts aim to ensure that the education system meets modern demands and supports national development.
Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dasuki I. Arabi, emphasized the importance of reforms in tackling systemic weaknesses that affect both schools and universities. He stated that the education sector remains a cornerstone of national development and that reforms are essential to meet current challenges while aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Education Transformation Roadmap 2026.
Arabi pointed out that despite previous interventions by various administrations, several major challenges continue to persist. He highlighted that the education system is facing infrastructural deficits, insufficient funding that falls below UNESCO benchmarks, a shortage of qualified teachers, and outdated curricula that do not reflect modern job market needs.
To address these issues, the Bureau plans to implement performance frameworks, conduct institutional assessments, and introduce self-evaluation tools across educational institutions. These measures are intended to improve accountability and service delivery within the sector.
“We are seeking cooperation to implement performance frameworks for schools and staff, deploy Self-Assessment Tools, and integrate educational reforms into broader public service strategies,” Arabi said.
He also mentioned recent initiatives aimed at stabilizing the university system, including funding support through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund and the 2025 FGN-ASUU agreement, which provides a 40% pay rise and increased research funding for university staff.
In addition, the implementation of the Students’ Loan Scheme is expanding access to higher education, ensuring that no qualified student is left behind due to financial constraints.
Key Initiatives Underway
- Performance Frameworks: These will be introduced to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of educational institutions.
- Institutional Assessments: Regular evaluations will help identify areas needing improvement and track progress over time.
- Self-Assessment Tools: These tools will empower institutions to assess their own performance and identify opportunities for growth.
- Funding Support: The Tertiary Education Trust Fund continues to provide critical financial resources to support universities.
- Pay Rise and Research Funding: The 2025 FGN-ASUU agreement ensures better compensation and more resources for academic research.
- Students’ Loan Scheme: This initiative is making higher education more accessible by providing financial assistance to eligible students.
These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to transforming the education sector, ensuring it remains relevant and effective in meeting the needs of students and the broader economy. By addressing systemic challenges and implementing targeted reforms, the government aims to create a more robust and responsive education system.
