Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, the Vice-Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, and chairman of the 4th Enugu Diocesan Synod, has stated that the Nigerian education sector can only thrive if it values skills over certificates.
Anieke frowned at Nigerians’ perception of education as merely passing examinations and obtaining certificates rather than grooming people with real-world skills. “Unless your certificate reflects actual skills, it is meaningless. The moment we change how we perceive education in Nigeria, we will stop seeing it as a scam,” he expressed. He attributed Nigeria’s misperception of education to colonial legacies. The vice chancellor recommended adjusting education to encompass practical skills, character development, and moral values.
Anieke advocated for diversifying from reading and suggested that the Igbo apprenticeship system be formalised in the education sector. With this model, young people will learn from experienced entrepreneurs and acquire hands-on business experience. Following the apprenticeship, they will receive capital or goods to start their businesses independently.
