In Nigeria, a nation teeming with potential, the transformative power of education cannot be underestimated. It is the bedrock upon which a prosperous and vibrant society is built.
However, our education system faces significant challenges that hinder its progress, from inadequate infrastructure and outdated curricula to a shortage of qualified teachers.
To address these pressing issues and supercharge the education industry, the Nigerian presidency should seize a unique opportunity by partnering with the Diaspora ecosystem—a collaboration that holds immense promise for unlocking the potential of education in Nigeria.
Nigeria boasts one of the largest populations of Africans in the Diaspora, a vast network of talented individuals living abroad who possess expertise in diverse fields.
This Diaspora community is not only a source of pride but also a source of great potential for our nation’s development. In 2019 alone, Nigeria received an estimated $25 billion in remittances from the Diaspora, making it the largest recipient of remittances in Africa.
These financial inflows play a significant role in driving economic growth, accounting for over 5 per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), as reported by the World Bank.
While these figures are impressive, it is imperative to recognize the untapped potential within the Nigerian Diaspora when it comes to educational development.
By leveraging the resources, knowledge, and expertise of our Diaspora community, we can revolutionize the education sector and equip our youth with the skills needed to thrive in the modern world.
Partnering with the Diaspora ecosystem offers a multitude of benefits. First and foremost, it provides an opportunity to tap into the intellectual capital of Nigerians living abroad.
Many individuals within the Diaspora have excelled in various fields, including education, technology, and entrepreneurship.
By engaging these experts as advisors, mentors, and investors, we can gain valuable insights, innovative ideas, and access to global best practices. This collaboration would enable us to redefine our education policies, upgrade our curricula, and bridge the skills gap, ultimately propelling our education system to new heights.
Moreover, the Diaspora ecosystem represents a vast pool of financial resources that can be directed towards education.
By strategically attracting investments from the Diaspora, we can inject much-needed funding into the sector. These investments can fuel the growth of educational startups, nurture innovative EdTech solutions, and enhance infrastructure development.
With targeted funding, we can address critical issues such as inadequate school facilities, lack of educational materials, and teacher training programs. This infusion of financial support will uplift the education industry, making quality education accessible to all Nigerian youth.
By harnessing the power of the Diaspora ecosystem, we have the opportunity to create a transformative ripple effect. When our education system flourishes, it directly impacts the trajectory of our nation. Well-educated individuals contribute to a skilled workforce, driving economic growth and innovation.
They become the catalysts for positive change in their communities, fostering social development, and building a brighter future for all Nigerians.
A network of education leaders who can support the government to rethink its policy direction. There are thousands of super brilliance smart people who can jump in to support the country on policy and programmatic intervention
Investment in Startups playing in the EdTech space: Eyitayo, who runs FastEd, a tech funding incubator that has helped more than 10 companies in Nigeria said the best way to build the ecosystem of Edtech entrepreneurs is to attract investors from the diaspora.
Access to Global Resources: If you are looking for some of the best coaches, tech mentors and entrepreneurs mentors, you should think of Africans in Diaspora. And this is what Eyitayo has said he’s done to attract other resources and relationships for the country.
In conclusion, the Nigerian presidency has a unique chance to collaborate with the Diaspora ecosystem and unleash the full potential of education in our nation.
By partnering with our talented compatriots living abroad, we can tap into their expertise, secure vital investments, and unlock opportunities for growth in the education sector.
The Nigerian Diaspora is a rich reservoir of intellectual, financial, and entrepreneurial resources that, if harnessed effectively, can catapult our education system to new heights.
Let us seize this opportunity to empower our youth, equip them with the necessary skills, and pave the way for a prosperous future for Nigeria.
.Ogunmola is the chief executive officer (CEO), Utiva
