An educationist, Olajumoke Akere, says education systems across Africa must prioritise empowerment and values, not certificates alone, if the continent is to remain competitive globally.

Ms Akere, Head of School, JSAY Prevarsity, Ibadan, Oyo State, stated this on Wednesday.

The institution recently received the 2025 African Excellence Awards as the “Most Empowering College in Nigeria.”

It also won the award for “Excellence in Empowering CSR Initiatives” by MEA Markets-Middle East and Africa Markets.

According to her, the awards are a call to deepen reforms in youth development and access to practical learning.

“We must move beyond preparing young people to pass exams. Education should produce clarity, skills, values, confidence and readiness for life.

“This award is a reminder that raising young people for relevance, leadership and service is no longer optional; it is a necessity,’’ she said.

According to her, the institution’s CSR initiatives include scholarships for learners from underserved communities, free career guidance for secondary school students and digital literacy programmes.

She said the projects were designed to address gaps in career awareness, employability and leadership among Nigerian youths.

“At the core of our work is the belief that no young person should be denied opportunity because of circumstance.
Community empowerment is also a part of our curriculum.

“Awards are good, but the true victory for us is seeing young people gain direction and find their voice,’’ Ms Akere said.

She said the institution would expand global partnerships and integrate more digital and innovation-driven modules to meet the realities of the 21st century.

“We are strengthening systems that ensure our students remain future-ready in a rapidly changing world.
The journey, however, continues with more responsibility,’’ she said.

She, therefore, urged parents and stakeholders across Africa to support reforms that make education more purposeful and effective.

“Education must be a journey of discovery and relevance. Certificates alone cannot guarantee success. Purpose, competence and exposure matter,” Ms Akere said. 

(NAN)