Education, business leaders plan N5b fund for scholarships, teachers’ training, others
Education and business leaders plan to raise N5 billion for scholarships, teacher training and research centres on values education in Nigerian universities under the Otonti Nduka Foundation for Values Education
Education and business leaders plan to raise N5 billion for scholarships, teacher training and research centres on values education in Nigerian universities under the Otonti Nduka Foundation for Values Education Endowment Fund.
The fund is a major highlight of activities marking the centenary of Emeritus Prof. Otonti Nduka, scheduled for May 8, with a two-day programme in Rivers State.
A statement by the Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Prof. Hillary Wordu, and Secretary, Dr. Ovuchi Justice Agwnu, said the fund would be launched at the event. Chairman of Ramec Group of Companies, Grant Offor, will serve as Chief Launcher.
The organisers said the initiative seeks to promote values-based education in higher institutions, as well as support research and capacity development for educators.
They added that leaders from academia, government, industry and civil society were expected to attend in honour of Prof. Nduka’s contributions to education, moral philosophy and national development.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, is expected as the special guest of honour, while Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, will serve as Chief Host.
“This centenary is not just a birthday; it is a national reckoning with the values that define our progress,” Wordu said.
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Former Central Bank of Nigeria Deputy Governor, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, will deliver a keynote address titled “Trends and Challenges in Upholding Values Education in Nigeria.” He is expected to examine declining ethical standards amid globalisation and technological change and propose reforms that promote integrity and critical thinking.
Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Dr. Kanu Agabi (SAN), will also speak at the event.
Prof. Nduka, a former President of the Nigeria Academy of Education and recipient of the National Universities Commission’s Distinguished Professor of the Century award, is widely regarded as a pioneer of values education in post-colonial Africa. He earned his doctorate from the University of Ibadan and taught at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
His works, including The Foundations of Social Order and Ethics in Education, influenced the integration of moral philosophy into science and humanities curricula.
The event, to be held at Rivers State University, will begin with panel discussions on “Reviving Values in a Digital Age” and “Ethical Leadership for National Development.”
Day two will feature cultural performances, a gala dinner, the unveiling of a centenary portrait and the launch of an anthology of his works.
Organisers expect over 1,500 participants, including vice-chancellors, policymakers, academics and students, describing the celebration as a timely effort to strengthen values education as a response to corruption and social inequality.
