CEPCCN CALLS FOR URGENT EDUCATION REFORM: SKILLS, INNOVATION AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.

CEPCCN NATIONAL CALL TO ACTION

REFORM NIGERIA’S EDUCATION SYSTEM FOR RELEVANCE, SKILLS AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The Christian Elders and Professionals Consultative Council of Nigeria (CEPCCN) calls on the Federal Government of Nigeria, the National Universities Commission (NUC), university authorities, employers, parents and students to make educational reform an urgent national priority.

While acknowledging the concerns raised by Mr. Adesola Adefemi Ojuolape regarding graduate unemployment and outdated curricula, CEPCCN cautions against dismissing entire academic disciplines as worthless. The solution is not to abandon university education but to modernise it, strengthen practical training and align academic programmes with evolving professional standards, technological advances and national development needs.

We urge the Federal Government and relevant regulatory authorities to review curricula, strengthen technical and vocational education, improve research facilities, promote entrepreneurship and establish measurable standards for graduate competence. Universities must embrace innovation and industry partnerships, while employers should expand internships, mentorship and practical skills development.

Parents and students must also make informed educational and career choices, recognising that both academic qualifications and vocational skills can create meaningful opportunities when supported by competence, integrity and discipline.

CEPCCN demands coordinated action, measurable reforms and institutional accountability. Nigeria must move beyond certificate acquisition towards an educational system that develops knowledge, character, practical competence, creativity and productive capacity.

Our governing principle is simple: preserve what is valuable, reform what is outdated, strengthen what is weak, and invest in every legitimate pathway to human development.

The time for excuses is over; the time for action has come. The future of the Federal Republic of Nigeria depends not merely on the certificates we award, but on the knowledge, skills, character and value they represent.

FAITH • WISDOM • PROFESSIONALISM • SERVICE • NATIONAL TRANSFORMATION

His Lordship, Bishop Justice Alpha Ikpeama Director-General (D-G) Christian Elders and Professionals Consultative Council of Nigeria (CEPCCN)

“Champions of Professionalism and Wisdom in Christ.”