Liberty Career Academy, a non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering educational opportunities and career development, has issued a compelling call to action for federal and state governments in Nigeria. Their central message revolves around the urgent need for education subsidies to alleviate the financial strain on students and enhance accessibility to quality education nationwide. The academy emphasizes the fundamental importance of education, placing it on par with basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter. This call to action arises from the growing concern over the escalating costs of education, which pose a significant barrier for many aspiring students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The academy’s founder, Gbenga Rufai, articulated this position during a scholarship award ceremony held at the University of Lagos. Nine outstanding students from various tertiary institutions across the country were recipients of these scholarships, highlighting the academy’s commitment to supporting promising individuals in their educational pursuits. Rufai stressed that the financial struggles faced by many students, stemming from escalating tuition fees and inadequate financial aid programs, hinder their access to higher education. This, in turn, impacts the nation’s human capital development and future prospects.
Rufai’s appeal for government intervention focuses on two key aspects: subsidizing education from the earliest stages and making schooling compulsory for all children. He argues that early intervention through subsidies can lay a solid foundation for educational attainment, while compulsory education ensures that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to learning opportunities. This comprehensive approach, he believes, is crucial for nurturing future leaders and shaping a brighter future for the nation.
The academy’s founder also emphasized the need for increased funding for education. He pointed out that Nigeria’s current education budget falls short of the 13% minimum recommended by the United Nations. As a signatory to the UN charter, Nigeria, he argued, has a responsibility to meet this target. Adequate funding is essential, not only for providing financial assistance to students but also for ensuring fair compensation for educators, improving educational infrastructure, and ensuring quality education across the country.
The Liberty Career Academy, through initiatives like the scholarship awards, exemplifies its dedication to empowering individuals through education and career guidance. The academy’s focus extends beyond financial assistance to encompass mentorship programs that equip students with valuable life skills and prepare them for future success. This holistic approach recognizes that education is not merely about academic achievement but also about personal and professional development.
The scholarship recipients themselves attested to the profound impact of the academy’s support. David Ikuomola, a student at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, expressed his gratitude for the scholarship, highlighting how it would significantly alleviate his financial burden. He also emphasized the invaluable insights he gained from the academy’s career and mentorship program, equipping him with essential skills for his future endeavors. This underscores the academy’s effectiveness in providing not just financial aid but also crucial guidance and support for students’ overall development. The academy’s work serves as a model for how private organizations can contribute meaningfully to addressing the challenges in the education sector and empowering the next generation of leaders. Their call to action for government intervention, combined with their own initiatives, represents a powerful force for positive change in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
