NSIKAK IBATT
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Articles by NSIKAK IBATT
How Students Can Recognise False Answers Generated by AI Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence has changed how students find information, complete assignments and understand difficult subjects. With a simple question or instruction, an AI chatbot can explain a mathematical concept, summarise a textbook chapter, suggest research topics or generate an essay within seconds. For students dealing with tight deadlines or challenging coursework, this convenience can make learning feel easier. However, AI-generated answers are not always correct.
Busayo Adeyemo Wins 2026 Maltina Teacher of the Year, Gets ₦10m, Car and Three-Bedroom Apartment
Busayo Adeyemo of Lanre Awolokun High School, Gbagada, Lagos State, has emerged the overall winner of the 2026 Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition, receiving a ₦10 million cash prize, a Honda HR-V, an overseas capacity development opportunity and a three-bedroom apartment courtesy of the Lagos State Government.
James Hope University appoints Dr Oguchi associate dean of student affairs
LAGOS, NIGERIA – James Hope University has appointed Dr Joy Oguchi as its new Associate Dean of Student Affairs, assigning her an expanded leadership role in overseeing non-academic student operations and strengthening the institution’s student support systems. Oguchi announced the appointment in her post on LinkedIn, describing it as an important milestone in her professional journey and an opportunity to contribute more strategically to the university’s administration and student experience.
EKSU secures NUC approval for six new degree programmes
Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, has obtained regulatory clearance to introduce six additional undergraduate programmes, with admissions expected to begin in the 2027/2028 academic session. The National Universities Commission (NUC) communicated its approval in a letter dated October 22, 2026. The document was signed by the commission’s Acting Director of Academic Planning, Dr Ayuba Mohammed, on behalf of the Executive Secretary.
Kano university secures accreditation for 20 courses
The Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo, Kano State, has secured accreditation for 20 academic programmes, including medical courses, ahead of the commencement of its maiden academic session. The accreditation marks a significant step towards the take-off of academic activities at the institution, which was converted from the Federal Polytechnic, Kabo, into a university in 2025.
When a teacher leaves in the middle of the term: How sudden teacher departures affect students and schools
A teacher leaving school in the middle of an academic term can create a disruption that extends far beyond an empty classroom. Lessons may be interrupted, students may struggle to adjust to a new instructor, planned assessments may be delayed, and school administrators may have to reorganise an already established timetable. For learners preparing for important examinations, the departure can also create uncertainty about whether they will complete the syllabus on time.
Covenant university celebrates 371 first-class graduates at 21st convocation
OTA, NIGERIA – Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, has graduated 371 students with First-Class honours at its 21st convocation ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session, with a Computer Engineering student emerging as the institution’s overall best graduating student. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Timothy Anake, disclosed this on Friday during the ceremony, which featured the award of first and higher degrees and the presentation of prizes to deserving graduates.
Otti pledges N10m for vulnerable students, school upgrade
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has pledged N10 million for students, particularly vulnerable learners, of his alma mater, Ngwa High School, Aba. Otti also set up a committee to coordinate the comprehensive rehabilitation of the school, with a mandate to identify and prioritise the institution’s critical infrastructure and educational needs. Otti announced this on Wednesday during a reception organised in his honour by the Ngwa High School Old Boys Association.
UI ASUU awards N1.1m scholarships to 11 indigent students
IBADAN. NIGERIA – The University of Ibadan (UI) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has awarded scholarships totalling N1.1 million to 11 indigent students to support their education and ease some of the financial challenges they face while studying.
NELFUND MD seeks alumni intervention to modernise Igbobi College
The Managing Director of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Akintunde Sawyerr, has appealed to former students of Igbobi College, Lagos, to increase their contributions towards upgrading the institution’s facilities. Sawyerr, who attended the school, said several of its older structures had remained largely the same since his days as a student, despite efforts to maintain them. He stressed that more investment was needed to preserve the buildings and improve the learning environment.
Umo Eno promises students N200,000 annual bursary
UYO, NIGERIA – Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has promised to increase the annual bursary for students in public tertiary institutions from N50,000 to N200,000 if re-elected for a second term in the February 2027 governorship election. Eno made the pledge on Wednesday during a fireside chat on the second day of the Ibom Ignite 2026 Conference at Ibom Hall in Uyo, saying the proposed increase would take effect if he won the election and was sworn in for another term on May 29, 2027.
Why experienced teachers sometimes struggle to change their teaching methods
Teaching experience is often associated with confidence, classroom control and the ability to explain difficult concepts in ways that students can understand. However, years spent in the classroom do not automatically make it easy for a teacher to adopt new teaching methods. A teacher who has successfully taught the same subject for 15 or 20 years may still find it difficult to move away from familiar routines, even when students’ learning needs have changed.
St. George’s university calls for risk-based breast cancer screening in Africa
St. George’s University has called for a risk-informed and equitable approach to breast cancer screening across Africa, urging healthcare providers to consider individual risk factors, improve early diagnosis and expand access to diagnostic services.
Who is Harry Kamboni? Inside the background of Zambia’s new minister of education
Zambia has appointed Harry Kazimete S. Kamboni as its new Minister of Education, bringing an experienced parliamentarian with a background in education and legislative oversight into one of the country’s most important public offices. President Hakainde Hichilema appointed Kamboni during a Cabinet reshuffle announced on October 28, 2026.
AAU cancels microbiology students’ examination over wild jubilation
EKPOMA, NIGERIA – Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State, has cancelled the MCB 414 examination taken by final-year students of its Department of Microbiology following a violation of the university Senate’s existing rules on wild jubilation. The decision was ratified by the university Senate at its 335th regular meeting held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, according to an internal memorandum dated October 15, 2026.
Harry Kamboni Appointed Zambia’s Minister of Education
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has appointed Hon. Harry Kamboni as the country’s new Minister of Education following a cabinet reshuffle that separates the education portfolio from skills and higher education. Kamboni was among the ministers sworn in at State House in Lusaka on Wednesday, October 28, according to reports of the presidential appointments. He will lead the Ministry of Education, while Douglas Syakalima has been assigned the separate Ministry of Skills and Higher Education.
NELFUND pilots tokenised payment system to prevent double school fees payments
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has commenced a pilot of a tokenised payment system designed to prevent students from paying their school fees twice and reduce complications associated with refunds, with nearly 400,000 loan applications received under the ongoing process.
10 things a university degree does not automatically guarantee
For many young people, gaining admission into a university represents the beginning of a journey towards a better future. Years of lectures, assignments, examinations and personal sacrifices eventually lead to graduation, often accompanied by the expectation that a degree will open doors to employment, financial stability and professional success.
The first 30 minutes of school: How the start of the day shapes learning
Before the first lesson begins, a great deal has already happened in a school. Students have arrived with different moods, teachers have prepared for the day’s activities, and the school environment has begun to influence how learners will participate. For some children, the morning brings excitement and curiosity; for others, it comes with tiredness, anxiety, unfinished homework or worries they have carried from home.
NCCE unveils new curriculum, five-year plan to strengthen teacher education
The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) has unveiled a new curriculum and a five-year strategic plan aimed at improving teacher education and strengthening the capacity of colleges of education to award degrees alongside the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE). The reforms are designed to reposition colleges of education to produce competent teachers with modern teaching skills, digital knowledge and practical experience, while expanding academic opportunities for students.
Otti urges Rhema University graduates to uphold Abia State’s reputation
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has called on graduates of Rhema University, Aba, to represent the state positively through their conduct, professional achievements and contributions to society. Otti gave the charge during the university’s ninth to 13th combined convocation ceremony in Aba, where he congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to follow the examples of accomplished individuals from Abia State.
Senate advances bills on medical PhD degrees, safety investigation autonomy
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Senate has passed, for second reading, two bills seeking to expand the academic powers of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria and strengthen the independence and operational autonomy of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau. The bills, sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, were considered during plenary at the National Assembly in Abuja on Tuesday.
Four students killed in crash involving Niger Governor’s convoy in Minna
MINNA, NIGERIA – Five people, including four male students and a young woman, have died in a road accident involving a vehicle in the convoy of Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago along the Minna–Bida Road. The fatal collision occurred on Monday at Gidan Mangoro community in Minna, the state capital, when a Hilux van in the governor’s convoy reportedly collided head-on with a private Peugeot 206 car.
OAU announces resumption dates for 2026/2027 academic session
ILE-IFE, NIGERIA – The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has announced November 2026 resumption dates for the 2026/2027 academic session, directing newly admitted students to arrive on campus ahead of registration and orientation activities.
64 Katsina students hospitalised after bilharzia treatment
KATSINA, NIGERIA – At least 64 students of Government Science Secondary School, Batagarawa, in Katsina State, have been hospitalised after developing adverse reactions following the administration of medication during a Bilharzia treatment and prevention exercise. The affected students were taken to Ahmadi Rimi General Hospital and Turai Yar’Adua Maternal and Child Hospital in Katsina after reportedly experiencing symptoms including vomiting, abdominal discomfort and dizziness.
Why some students learn better from their classmates than from lectures
For some students, a difficult lesson becomes easier to understand when a classmate explains it in a different way. A mathematical problem that seemed confusing during a lecture may suddenly make sense when a fellow student breaks it down into simpler steps. Similarly, a learner who struggles to follow a teacher’s explanation may understand a concept after discussing it with a friend who has recently overcome the same difficulty.
UK to charge universities £925 annually for international students from 2028
Universities in England will be required to pay an annual levy of £925 for each international student above an exemption threshold from August 2028, under a government policy expected to affect institutions enrolling students from Nigeria, India, China, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The policy, first announced in the United Kingdom government’s 2025 budget, was reaffirmed by Education Minister Josh MacAlister, who said the revenue generated would support England’s higher education and skills system.
NUC approves 34 degree programmes for new federal university in Lagos
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has authorised the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, Lagos State, to offer 34 undergraduate programmes ahead of the 2026/2027 academic session. The approval followed an assessment by panels of experts who evaluated the university’s human and physical resources to determine its readiness to deliver the proposed courses.
OAU denies ethnic discrimination allegations in 2025/2026 admissions
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has rejected allegations that ethnic considerations influenced its admission decisions for the 2025/2026 academic session, insisting that the process follows approved national regulations and established admission criteria.
10 Ways Schools Can Build Students’ Confidence
A student’s confidence can influence how they participate in class, respond to challenges, interact with others and approach new learning experiences. Some students readily ask questions, volunteer answers and take on leadership responsibilities, while others remain silent even when they have valuable ideas to contribute. The difference is not always ability. In many cases, it reflects how students see themselves and whether they feel safe enough to express what they know.
Senate passes bill for proposed University of Agriculture in Orerokpe
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Senate has passed the University of Agriculture, Orerokpe Bill, sponsored by Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, through its third reading, marking a legislative milestone in efforts to establish a specialised agricultural institution in Delta State.
Olanrewaju urges Kwara to convert KWASUED into specialised medical university
ILORIN, NIGERIA – A Kwara-based public affairs analyst, Comrade Ishowo Olanrewaju, has called on the Kwara State Government to convert the recently established Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED) into a specialised medical university to address the persistent shortage of doctors and other healthcare professionals in the state. Ishowo made the call in Ilorin over the weekend while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of recurring strikes by medical doctors in state-owned hospitals.
The difference between being busy and being productive as a student
Students often measure a successful day by how much they have done. Attending lectures, copying notes, completing assignments, reading textbooks and preparing for examinations can make a day feel full. However, a packed schedule does not always translate into meaningful learning. A student may spend several hours studying and still struggle to explain what they have read, remember important concepts or apply their knowledge during an examination.
World bank-supported AGILE project improves learning conditions for 778,000 students in Katsina
KATSINA, NIGERIA – The World Bank-supported Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project has improved learning conditions for 778,000 students in Katsina State through infrastructure upgrades, digital education, financial assistance and programmes designed to keep adolescent girls in school.
St Teresa’s college old boys launch N1bn infrastructure project
NSUKKA, NIGERIA – The St Teresa’s College Nsukka Old Boys’ Association (STOBA) Worldwide has launched a N1 billion infrastructure upgrade project aimed at restoring academic excellence and improving facilities at its alma mater in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State. The President of STOBA Worldwide, HRH Igwe Professor Johnny Eluka, announced the initiative during the association’s 2026 National Convention, held at St Teresa’s College, Nsukka, from October 23 to 25.
University workers report salary arrears shortfalls as inions demand full payment
University workers across Nigeria have reported mixed outcomes following the Federal Government’s release of funds for arrears under its 2026 agreement with university unions, with several staff members alleging incomplete payments, outstanding allowances and a lack of clarity over their entitlements.
Beyond the Classroom: How Miss Samson Is helping teachers build their professional presence with canva
Teachers spend years developing their skills, supporting learners and managing the demands of the classroom. Yet many struggle to communicate that experience beyond their school walls. How do they demonstrate their impact, build a professional presence or present themselves confidently when new opportunities arise?
FG disburses N38.93bn to 166 public tertiary institutions
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Federal Government has disbursed N38.93 billion to 166 public tertiary institutions across Nigeria under the Needs Assessment Revitalisation Fund to address infrastructure gaps and improve teaching and learning facilities. The disbursement covers 79 universities, 46 polytechnics and 41 colleges of education, according to a statement issued by the Head of Media at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Efe Ovuakporie, on Sunday in Abuja.
Otti gives debate champions ₦1m each, awards captain scholarship
UMUAHIA, NIGERIA – Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced a cash reward of ₦1 million each for five students who represented the state and Nigeria at the 2026 International Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar. The governor also approved a full education sponsorship up to university level for the team captain, 15-year-old Esther Christian, through the Alex Otti Foundation. Christian reportedly lost her father when she was four years old.
Ike Chioke Reflects on Education, Research and Nation-Building During Homecoming to OAU
ILE-IFE, Nigeria — Ike Chioke, Group Managing Director of Afrinvest West Africa Limited, has reflected on the role of university education in shaping professional excellence and national development following a visit to his alma mater, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.
Ogun police arrest three students over suspected cult initiation
OGUN, NIGERIA – The Ogun State Police Command has arrested three secondary school students during a suspected cult initiation in Owode-Yewa, following an intelligence report about a planned gathering involving students from different schools in the area. The suspects, comprising a 12-year-old and two 18-year-olds, were arrested on Thursday, October 22, 2026, during an operation conducted by police detectives in collaboration with members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria.
APM Terminals Awards Scholarships to 50 Apapa Students
APAPA, NIGERIA – APM Terminals Apapa has awarded scholarships to 50 undergraduate students from its host community in Apapa, Lagos, bringing the total number of beneficiaries under its scholarship programme to 151. The scholarships were presented on Friday during the third edition of the programme, which supports students studying at public universities and other accredited higher institutions across Nigeria.
Kwara approves promotion of 5,956 SUBEB staff
ILORIN, NIGERIA – Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has approved the promotion of 5,956 teaching and non-teaching staff of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), with the financial benefits scheduled to take effect from October 2026. The approval followed a computer-based test conducted earlier in October for eligible employees as part of the board’s promotion exercise.
The importance of giving students time to think: Why learning needs more than quick answers
In many classrooms, a quick answer is often mistaken for a sign of understanding. A student who raises a hand immediately may appear more knowledgeable than one who pauses to consider a question, organise an idea or work through a difficult problem. However, learning does not always happen at the speed of a conversation. Some students need time to connect new information with what they already know, examine different possibilities and develop a response they can explain with confidence.
Maltina Teacher of the Year: 10 finalists compete for ₦10m prize, Honda HR-
Ten teachers from across Nigeria have been shortlisted for the 2026 Maltina Teacher of the Year award, with the eventual winner set to receive a ₦10m cash reward, a brand-new Honda HR-V and other benefits. The competition, organised by the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, will also provide the winning teacher’s school with ₦30m worth of infrastructure.
Edugist launches dedicated journalism beat for foundational learning in Africa
LAGOS, NIGERIA – Edugist, an education-focused newsroom and innovation lab, has launched a dedicated journalism beat on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) to strengthen accountability and reporting on the learning crisis affecting children across Africa. The initiative, launched on Friday, comes amid concerns that 9 in 10 children in Africa struggle to read, write or solve simple arithmetic problems, highlighting persistent challenges in foundational education across the continent.
ABUAD produces 286 first-class graduates as 2,194 bag degrees
ADO-EKITI, NIGERIA – A total of 286 students of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), have graduated with first-class honours as the institution conferred degrees on 2,194 students at its 14th convocation ceremony. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, disclosed this on Wednesday during her welcome address at the ceremony, announcing that the graduating class comprised 1,759 undergraduate students and 435 postgraduate students.
How Wellington’s Global Education Network Will Shape Its First School in Africa
Wellington College International Lagos will become the first Wellington school in Africa when it opens in September 2027. As plans for the new school take shape, an important question is how Wellington’s educational philosophy, developed over more than 170 years and across a growing family of international schools, will be interpreted in the Nigerian context.
UNILAG, Birmingham launch joint postgraduate programmes in AI, digital media
AKOKA, NIGERIA – The University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom have launched two joint postgraduate programmes in Artificial Intelligence and Data Technologies, and Digital Media and Communications, aimed at expanding access to international-standard education and strengthening skills development in Nigeria. The programmes were officially launched following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two universities in January.
Why many graduates feel unprepared for their first job
Graduating from university is often seen as the beginning of a successful career. After years of lectures, assignments, examinations and academic projects, graduates expect to enter the workplace with the knowledge and confidence needed to begin their professional lives. However, the transition from the classroom to the office, newsroom, hospital, laboratory or business environment can be more difficult than many anticipate.
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