KEY POINTS
- A UK-funded project promotes curriculum reform in Nigeria.
- The focus is on sustainability, peace, and entrepreneurship.
- Universities in Nigeria will receive academic resources and support.
Two Nigerian universities, Ekiti State University and Babcock University, have been selected to lead a new education initiative backed by the British Council, aimed at reshaping how university students are trained for the modern world.
Spearheaded by Dr. Olushola Kolawole of the University of Bradford, the project targets a broad curriculum overhaul centered on entrepreneurship, the circular economy, and peacebuilding—three pillars increasingly central to global development frameworks.
Curriculum reform focuses on peace and sustainability
The initiative formally launched with a workshop in Lagos, drawing curriculum experts, educators, and stakeholders together under the theme :Curriculum Development for Entrepreneurship, Circular Economy, and Peacebuilding in Nigeria. The goal: to embed these themes into Nigeria’s higher education framework.
Kolawole stressed the need to adapt education systems across Africa to today’s realities.
He argued that the continent’s economic and social future depends on giving students the tools to compete globally.
“We must equip the next generation with knowledge to build resilient economies, promote peace, and champion sustainable development,” he said. “This project is a significant step toward that future.”
UK-funded project promotes curriculum reform in Nigeria
As part of the initiative, the two universities will receive academic resources, textbooks, and new learning materials to support classroom delivery and research in these thematic areas.
The project also aims to foster interdisciplinary learning and encourage Nigerian students to think beyond traditional academic silos.
Kolawole noted that the effort aligns with the broader goal of internationalizing Nigerian higher education.
It also aims to encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing between institutions in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Academics unite to co-author textbook series
Kolawole is working with an international team, including Prof. Kenneth Omeje from the International University, UK, and Dr. Joseph Danquah of the University of Bradford.
The team also includes Prof. Taiwo Owoeye of Ekiti State University and Prof. Adesoga Adefulu of Babcock University.
The team is developing a textbook featuring Africa-specific case studies and local applications of global theories. Co-edited by Kolawole and Omeje, the publication aims to serve as a go-to academic resource for the revamped curriculum.
Kolawole said the textbook will provide “practical, locally grounded examples” that allow students to bridge theory with real-world relevance in the Nigerian context.
