Presidency Urges Nigerian Youths to Embrace Education Amidst Skepticism at Next Generation Engagement Event
Kano State, Nigeria – The Presidency has encouraged Nigerian youth to abandon the belief that education is a scam. This message came from Ms. Rinsola Abiola, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Citizenship and Leadership, during the inaugural Next Generation Engagement held at the Coronation Hall in Kano.
The “Next Generation Project” is an initiative launched by Abiola’s office, aimed at fostering civic education and enhancing youth leadership skills, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA). Speaking to an audience of senior secondary school students, Abiola highlighted the Tinubu administration’s recognition of education as essential for preparing young people for a successful future. She pointed out a number of government initiatives designed to provide support in this regard, such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), an interest-free loan program set up to assist tertiary education students struggling to pay their tuition fees.
Abiola stressed the vital role of education in personal and professional development, stating, “I implore you to take your education seriously. Research indicates that higher education levels correlate with greater earning potential. This signifies that education is foundational for a prosperous future, making it critical to prioritize it.” She countered the notion that education is ineffective, asserting, “School is not a scam. An enlightened individual will engage in any job or business with a greater level of efficiency and organization.”
Highlighting the administration’s commitment to educational advancement, she reiterated the importance of the NELFUND initiative, emphasizing that it was created to support students in need.
In terms of civic engagement, Abiola urged the attendees to value concepts like democracy and nation-building. She encouraged them to become proactive citizens who will fulfill their civic responsibilities as they reach adulthood, engage in community development, and utilize the internet and social media thoughtfully to access learning and oportunidad.
The event drew attendance from various officials of the Kano State Government, and included a presentation from the Kano State Command of the NDLEA, which shed light on the dangers of substance abuse. Additionally, a mentorship segment featured prominent figures such as Dr. Kabir Sufi, a respected public servant and entrepreneur; Khalifa Mustapha, founder of Enthuse Entrepreneurship Secondary School in Kano; and Bahijjah Shehu Bawa, founder of the cosmetic brand Bee-Jay Beauty.
Furthermore, the Next Generation Project plans to hold similar engagements in Adamawa, Niger, Cross River, Abia, and Ogun states in the coming months.
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