_Directs Enugu tertiary institutions to deliver experiential learning

COSMAS CHUKWU , Enugu

Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has emphasized the urgent need for a transformation in Nigeria’s education system, stating that the current model is a fundamental barrier to the country’s development. Speaking at the 1st Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Distinguished Personalities Lecture Series, he argued for a shift from traditional rote learning to experiential learning, likening this change to the key that links education with industrialization and economic growth.

Mbah questioned the lack of Nigerian universities in global rankings and their failure to produce innovative graduates, suggesting that the root of these issues lies in an educational approach that has not equipped students with the necessary skills and competencies. Citing successful nations that prioritize quality education, he highlighted how their investments have contributed to their status as leading economies.

To foster this new educational approach, Mbah announced the implementation of experiential learning across all state-owned tertiary institutions and revealed plans to construct 260 Smart Green Schools aimed at embedding this model throughout Enugu State’s educational system. This initiative seeks to create a pipeline from foundational education to practical innovation, where students are encouraged to be active problem-solvers rather than passive learners.

Mbah’s administration has allocated 33% of the state’s budget to education, significantly exceeding UNESCO’s recommended investment levels. He stressed that the approach to education should focus on long-term human development rather than just immediate infrastructure projects. Through the Smart Green Schools initiative, students will engage with advanced technologies and essential competencies, preparing them for a rapidly changing, knowledge-driven world.

Overall, Mbah’s vision for education in Enugu State aims to cultivate a generation of skilled professionals who are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the economy.