OsunA Chief Lecturer in the Department of Library and Information Science at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun , Dr Modupe Aboyade, has said that sustainable education is essential to addressing economic, social and environmental challenges.
She said sustainable education is a growing trend, as it prepares individuals to understand, address and solve challenges, while also promoting analytical thinking necessary for effective decision-making.
“By equipping learners with the knowledge, values and skills needed for sustainable living, it builds resilient communities, supports long-term development and ensures that future generations can thrive,” she said.
She said that Nigeria’s education sector, despite the country being referred to as the ‘Giant of Africa,’ remains below average.
According to her, the country is still grappling with about 10.5 million out-of-school children.
She identified a high level of insecurity, reduced private investment in education, brain drain, Boko Haram insurgency and other social vices as factors having severe impacts on education in Nigeria.
She explained that these impacts have led to abrupt school closures, low school attendance and a decline in the quality of knowledge.
Aboyade added that the challenges have also resulted in the loss of manpower, internal displacement of learners and discouragement of educational pursuits, thereby threatening the quality and standards of education in the country.
She stressed that these issues require a comprehensive approach involving government and community stakeholders to ensure a secure environment in which learning can thrive.
Aboyade stated that education is a fundamental human right enshrined in multiple international legal instruments, adding that governments have a responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to free, quality and effective education.
She said the theme of her lecture highlights learning as a tripod balanced on the teacher (instructor), the student and the librarian, who sustains knowledge discovery and independent learning.
She added that achieving sustainable educational development requires collaborative efforts among policymakers, educators and other stakeholders, including librarians, to enhance the reach and impact of educational initiatives.
She further said that government must prioritise education in the national budget to meet citizens’ educational needs, while also improving library infrastructure and facilities.
