Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has called for substantial investment in teacher training as a critical step toward revamping Nigeria’s education sector.
She appealed over the weekend while receiving members of the Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA) at her office in Akoka.
The delegation, led by Mr Uche Orazulike on behalf of the Lagos Zone President, Mr Chinedu Okoli, included Mr Alex Akindumila (Global President, FGC Odo-Ani), Mrs Omoye Evbota (Global President, FGGC New Bussa), Mrs Kikelomo Alamu (Social Secretary, Lagos Zone and alumna of FGGC Bakori), and Mrs Mimi Leke (Publicity Secretary, Lagos Zone and alumna of FGGC Owerri).
Welcoming the USOSA team, Professor Ogunsola, an alumna of Queen’s College, Lagos (Class of 1974), expressed concern over the declining standards in Unity Schools and the broader education system in the country.
She noted, “The challenges that confront the educational landscape affect all schools, whether or not. There is an infrastructure deficit, overcrowding, insufficient funding, and, most importantly, a lack of access. What is the population of our country? What is our landmass? Furthermore, how many Unity Schools do we have to make a meaningful impact?”
The Vice-Chancellor stressed the ripple effect of underperforming secondary schools on the quality of graduates at the tertiary level. “If secondary school graduates are not well-rounded, we can be sure that the product will be poor even at the tertiary level. It is a clear signal that the government must invest not just in Unity Schools, which are government institutions, but across the entire secondary school landscape. This is essential if we are serious about improving our chances at national development.”
Professor Ogunsola also called for urgent reforms to preserve the legacy of Unity Schools, which she described as foundational to national development. She emphasised the need for a better reward system and improved remuneration for teachers, stating that the strength of any education system lies in its educators.
In his remarks, Mr Orazulike outlined USOSA’s commitment to preserving the legacy of Unity Schools through advocacy, alumni engagement, and strategic partnerships. He also announced upcoming USOSA events, including the 2025 Plenary in Enugu and a diaspora meeting in Toronto, Canada, both of which aim to support teacher welfare and promote academic excellence.
Moved by Professor Ogunsola’s passion and insights, the USOSA team pledged their continued support for efforts to elevate Unity Schools and enhance the future of education in Nigeria.
The meeting concluded with an exchange of gifts and the presentation of a distinguished alumna award to Professor Ogunsola.
