Insecurity hindering Nigerian varsities- LASU VC

Lagos State University

The Vice-Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun, has identified insecurity as a major factor discouraging foreigners from enlisting in Nigerian universities.

Fagbohun made the announcement on Monday in Lagos.

He said that Nigeria’s education system, especially at the tertiary level had not been competitive because of the absence of foreign scholars and students.

The vice-chancellor argued that in the past, most universities in Nigeria had foreign scholars and students, due to the congenial learning environment.

“We must put our acts together if we want to be globally competitive in education.

“We must not forget that in every area of life’s endeavour, security is critical.

“One thing we need to do is for us as Nigerians to put up positive narratives that will convince the world about us.

“For example, if you meet a Ghanaian or a Kenyan, he will not hesitate to paint a wonderful picture about his country, given the slightest opportunity.’’

The vice-chancellor noted that giving a positive impression of one’s country was necessary to create positive impression of such countries for foreigners.

He argued that there was need for a change of attitude by Nigerians in making narratives about their country.

Fagbohun said that Nigeria’s education system would change for the better when Nigerians showed positive thinking toward their country.

“We must put all hands on deck to ensure that our environment is conducive and attractive enough, not only for teaching and learning but for life in general.

“It is not just about sinking money into the system, building more structures or putting state-of-the-art facilities in place, improving human relations is key,’’ he said.