First-class graduates surge seen as economic waste without competence-based education

Nubi Achebo, director of academic planning at Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM) has raised concern the Nigeria’s first-class graduates surge could lead to economic waste by inducing academic credentials devaluation, and skills mismatch, if not checked.

Achebo disclosed this in an interview with BusinessDay on Friday, when he said the surge in first-class graduates and concerns about their employability have significant implications for individuals, employers, and the education system as a whole.

According to Achebo, the implications of the surge in first-class graduates in the country include among others; inflation of academic credentials, skills mismatch, unemployment and underemployment and economic consequences.

Read also: ‘Graduating with a first class, most intentional thing I have done’

“The increasing number of first-class graduates can lead to a devaluation of academic credentials, making it harder for employers to distinguish between truly exceptional candidates and those who have simply benefited from grade inflation.

“The focus on academic achievement may not necessarily translate to the development of practical skills, leading to a mismatch between what employers need and what graduates can offer,” he said.

As stakeholders continue to raise eyebrows over the increase in the number of first-class graduates, and their ability to fit into the labour market, the educationist said that the inability of graduates to secure meaningful employment can lead to unemployment, underemployment, and a waste of human potential.

This, he explained could have spiral effect as the accumulation of student debt, combined with the lack of employability, can have far-reaching economic consequences, including delayed entrepreneurship, reduced consumer spending, and increased burden on social safety nets.

Achebo said the rise in the number first-class graduates is a result of grade inflation, teaching to the test, lack of emphasis on practical skills, and insufficient industry-academia collaboration.

“The pressure to attract and retain students, combined with the desire to maintain a positive reputation, can lead to grade inflation, where grades are artificially inflated to make students appear more competitive.
The emphasis on standardised testing and academic achievement can lead to a narrow focus on teaching to the test, rather than fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Read also: Increasing first-class graduates mirror private varsities learning outcomes – Experts

“The education system may prioritise theoretical knowledge over practical skills, leaving graduates unprepared for the demands of the workforce. The lack of collaboration between industry and academia can lead to a disconnect between what is taught in the classroom and what is required in the workplace,” he said.

To get the country out of this quagmire, Achebo said the education system must emphasise practical skills, industry-academia collaboration, and competency-based learning, among others.

“Incorporate more practical, hands-on learning experiences into the curriculum to help students develop the skills employers need.
Foster stronger partnerships between industry and academia to ensure that the education system is producing graduates with relevant skills and knowledge.
“Shift the focus from traditional degree requirements to competency-based education, where students are assessed on their demonstration of specific skills and knowledge. Move beyond traditional grading systems and incorporate more holistic assessments that evaluate students’ critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills,” he said.

Moreover, he advocated for a culture of lifelong learning, where graduates are equipped with the skills and mindset to continue learning and adapting throughout their careers.

By addressing these issues and implementing meaningful reforms, he said; Nigeria will be able to work towards creating a more effective and employable workforce, that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.