Education specialist Dr. Dennis Imafidon has called on Nigerian governments at all levels to focus on funding quality education rather than fixating solely on free education initiatives. His remarks came as he accepted an honorary doctorate from Prowess University, Delaware, USA, over the weekend.
Dr. Imafidon emphasized that while free education sounds appealing, it often lacks the essential funding and resources needed to provide a meaningful, high-quality learning experience. He urged that without sincere financial commitment from government bodies, educators, and communities alike, free education programs remain unsustainable and ineffective, as evidenced by some state-led initiatives in Nigeria.
According to Imafidon, the current system produces a large number of graduates who, upon entering the workforce, struggle to meet industry demands due to inadequate preparation. “It’s not just about free education,” he stated. “Quality is key. You can’t offer free education if it lacks substance, depth, and rigor. Too often, students who complete these programs are unable to demonstrate practical knowledge or skills and find themselves unprepared for the job market.”
Dr. Imafidon noted that many graduates are unable to defend their qualifications or meet basic employment requirements, leaving both employers and graduates at a disadvantage. He praised President Bola Tinubu’s recent administration for the introduction of a Student Loan Scheme, which he believes could effectively reduce literacy gaps by enabling broader access to higher education without sacrificing quality.
Dr. Imafidon shared insights from his experience at Apex Olive College, a school that prioritizes high-standard education by investing in infrastructure, lab equipment, and other essential learning tools. He explained that such investments directly support the goal of providing students with the hands-on skills and knowledge needed to thrive academically and professionally.
At the event, the importance of ongoing skill development was underscored by Professor Olubodun Olayiwola, a Togolese economist, who presented a keynote lecture titled “Evaluation of Human Capital Development as a Strategy for Increasing Productivity in an Organisation.” Prof. Olayiwola highlighted that continuous training and development are critical in enhancing workforce productivity and long-term organizational success.
Dr. Imafidon concluded by calling on all stakeholders, including governments, parents, educational institutions, and the students themselves, to collaborate in supporting a robust and impactful education system. He emphasized that without a shared dedication to genuine education funding and quality assurance, the promise of a truly educated and prepared workforce would remain unfulfilled.
