Lecturer urges Nigerian government to review curriculum to curb Japa syndrome
Dr. Bisi Olawuyi, a lecturer in the Department of Communication and Language Arts at the University of Ibadan, has called on the Nigerian government to urgently review the country’s educational curriculum to address the rising issue of the “Japa syndrome” among the youth.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ‘Superbowl’ oratory competition held at the university on Friday, Dr. Olawuyi emphasized that the current curriculum does not align with the country’s pressing challenges. He expressed concern about the increasing trend of young Nigerians migrating in search of better opportunities abroad.
Olawuyi explained that Nigeria has great potential but that the educational system needs to better prepare students to address national issues and contribute to the country’s development. He urged the government to adjust the curriculum to meet the needs of today’s society, thereby preventing the loss of talent to other countries.
“The curriculum we have in Nigeria now does not address our salient national issues. There is a misalignment between what we teach and what the society needs,” he said, adding, “You can make it in Nigeria if we engage young people in national issues.”
He also encouraged the youth to maintain hope in their country, stressing the importance of fostering leadership skills through initiatives like the oratory competition.
