The 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has reiterated the need for aggressive investment in education as a catalyst for national development.
The former Governor of Anambra State said this at the First International Conference of Peaceland University, Enugu, themed “Digitalisation in education: staying ahead of the curve.”
Mr Obi emphasised the transformative power of education in driving progress and reducing poverty.
Mr Obi, who attended the conference as a special guest, described it as an opportunity to interact with students and inspire them in their academic pursuits.
He highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to embrace digital transformation in education to remain competitive in a rapidly changing world.
“In today’s fast-paced world, where technology evolves so rapidly, our education system must keep pace. Digitalization will not only enhance learning productivity but also offer increased access to education by breaking physical barriers and reducing the cost of physical infrastructure,” Obi stated.
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He praised the global model of Indira Gandhi National Open University in India, which serves over 7 million students through distance learning powered by digital technology.
“This demonstrates how digitalisation can open doors to millions of learners, making education accessible, affordable, and inclusive,” he added.
Mr Obi also paid tribute to the visionary behind Peaceland University, Mama Pia, a Swiss philanthropist who invested her entire life savings into establishing the institution.
He said that that inspired by her visit to Enugu, Mama Pia saw education as the most effective tool to combat poverty and drive development.
“Her story is a testament to the critical role of education in nation-building and aligns with my consistent advocacy for prioritizing education as the bedrock of Nigeria’s progress,” Obi remarked.
He called on governments at all levels to prioritise investments in education, especially in innovative technologies and strategies that ensure the sector remains relevant in the digital age.
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“If we invest aggressively in education, we will produce responsible citizens who will drive our national development,” he said.
Mr Obi urged stakeholders to work together toward building a brighter future for the nation.
“A new, more enlightened Nigeria through increased and improved education remains possible,” he affirmed.
The conference, which drew participants from various sectors, underscored the pivotal role of digitalisation in shaping the future of education in Nigeria.
