Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu Delivers Thought Provoking Convocation Lecture at The University of Calabar

 ...........calls for overhaul of varsity curriculums

As the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt hon Benjamin Kalu, delivered his convocation lecture at the 37th convocation and 50th anniversary of the University Of Calabar, he highlighted the urgent need for overhauling of outdated curriculums in Nigerian Universities. 

With the emerging use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), many Nigerian courses are becoming obsolete and lack the ability to provide students with problem-solving skills in line with modern realities.

In his speech, the lawmaker emphasized the pressing need for Nigerian Universities to rise up to their challenges and prioritize the introduction of tech skills such as cyber security, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. 

He stated, "The challenge before us is clear - our universities must go beyond theory to practical impact. They must bring the gown into the town and now into cyberspace where knowledge is applied."

Rt. Hon Kalu also stressed the importance of universities shifting their focus from solely academic performance, as measured by grades, to a more meaningful measure of education - its impact on society. 

He urged universities to stop teaching students courses and curriculums that do not empower them to become problem solvers. 

He stated, "There is too much emphasis on CGPA, and it is not based on GPA, but rather on problem-solving skills."

The Deputy Speaker further noted that outdated teaching methods fail to adequately prepare students for future challenges. 

He pointed out that the true measure of education lies in its impact on society, and not just in the classroom. 

Rt. Hon Kalu questioned how many university projects directly address local challenges such as healthcare, water access, food security, or transportation. 

He urged universities to shift their focus from theories to tangible solutions, and equip graduates with the skills to address real issues, from policy refinements to transportation.

Rt. Hon Kalu also called for a reform in the curriculums of law faculties and engineering programs. He suggested that law faculties should adopt blockchain technology, while engineering students should embrace robotics. 

He believes that when universities mirror the needs of society, productivity will follow. 

He also stressed the importance of bridging the gap between academia and society, stating that this is the key to driving national progress and contributing to global knowledge.

In conclusion, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu urged universities in Nigeria to translate theories into problem-solving. He called for a leveraging of technology and a reform of the curriculum to better equip students with the skills needed for the future. 

As a Professional in his tone of voice, he emphasized the importance of impactful learning, stating that it is the key to driving progress and making a meaningful impact on society.

Stay tuned for more updates.

More pictures below.

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