The need for a paradigm and pragmatic shift in the jurisprudence of the right to education in Nigeria was the focus, as academic scholars and some members of the public met on Thursday Evening (29th August, 2024) at the Auditorium of the University of Ilorin (Unilorin), for the 264th Inaugural Lecture.
The inaugural Lecturer, a Professor from the department of Jurisprudence and International Law, Faculty of Law, Unilorin- Azubike Onuora-Oguno, raised the alarm over the state of Nigeria’s education sector, calling for immediate and comprehensive reforms.
Prof. Azubike Onuora-Oguno delivering the 264th Inaugural Lecture at the Auditorium of the University of Ilorin
In the lecture titled “Disorder in the order of the Economic and Social rights Jurisprudence in Nigeria”, the University Don said: “It is, therefore, on the above premise that I proceed to conceptualise the right to education as a fundamental human rights and theorise the importance of enhancing the jurisprudence as a means of solving the many challenges bedeviling our nation. Education in my research is represented as a classical right on which all other rights must build upon. It holds the magic wand that can end the various spates of crimes that bedevil our nation, Nigeria. Consequently, education became to me a basis on which not just the history and custom of a people is transmitted or preserved but the only basis on which dignity is preserved (Onuora-Oguno, 2018, p.7). It is implied that; if the identified disorder must be corrected, the need for a paradigm and pragmatic shift in the jurisprudence of the right to education in Nigeria must be realigned”.
He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among educational bodies such as the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), and State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEB).
“In this sphere, I recommend a review of the welfare of teachers and stakeholders in the education sector. Equally, the need to ensure that an ethical approach to education delivery is vital. As much as the burden is placed on the State, we recognise the role of pupils, parents, teachers, and the community. The attitude and perception of the values inherent in education trump the praise singing of wealth-especially when the source is illegal and unidentifiable.
I recommend that policies and laws relating to education must be aligned from a right based perspective to aid the advocacy of the right to education and adjudication of same. In addition, we must all ensure that the relevant policies are sufficiently adaptive enough to avoid halting of access to education (Onuora-Ogunoand Igbayiloye, 2020, p. 1).
It is important to ensure that adequate and verifiable data is available especially as it relates to education needs of persons with disabilities. This will ensure adequate budgetary and logistical plans towards quality and inclusive education (Onuora-Oguno, 2020, p.178)” said Prof. Onuora-Oguno.
According to him, these institutions must work together to ensure the delivery of quality education across the country.
Professor Onuora-Oguno also urged the judiciary, particularly in Kwara State, to play a more active role in addressing educational issues, as he believes that a more involved judiciary would lead to better policy development and stronger enforcement of education laws.
Amongst dignitaries present at the Inaugural Lecture is the Vice Chancellor University of Ilorin- Prof. Wahab Egbewole S.A.N.