• Gov. Soludo sees education as a priority, says Prof Omenugha, COOU Vice Chancellor

From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha

Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has emphasized the need for academics to expand their roles beyond traditional teaching.

The governor spoke while addressing a gathering of educators and higher education stakeholders at the Higher Education Stakeholders Forum at Women’s Development Centre, Awka.

During his speech, Governor Soludo challenged the notion of academia as a secluded profession solely focused on teaching. He stated, “As academics, you cannot afford the secluded prestige thing of just teaching. You must have the capacity to multi-task.” He pointed out the importance of integrating teaching, research, and community service into the academic framework, placing particular emphasis on the latter, which he referred to as “more important.”

Highlighting the challenges faced by educational institutions in a developing country context, Governor Soludo expressed his belief that it is still possible for educators to excel across multiple domains. “You can multitask and still excel in all sectors,” he asserted, urging attendees to recognise their potential to impact society positively.

The governor issued a “call to action,” encouraging educators to move beyond merely producing articles and research. “These contributions are necessary but not sufficient,” he remarked, stressing the importance of translating academic knowledge into practical applications that can address societal needs.

Concluding, Governor Soludo offered words of encouragement, acknowledging the wealth of talent and innovative ideas present among the academic community. “A lot of you have a lot of brilliant things to do,” he said, inspiring attendees to embrace their roles in driving social change, promising to continue to contribute his bit in developing Anambra State across sectors.

Convener of the forum and Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Professor Kate Omenugha, emphasized the importance of introspection within the current educational landscape. She noted that education and politics are intricately connected, highlighting the significance of leadership in guiding affairs. “Who is at the helm of affairs is important,” she stated, underscoring the responsibility of educators to actively participate as leaders of thought. Professor Omenugha called for a collective effort to “build, not destroy,” stressing the need for a constructive approach that will benefit future generations.

Prof. Omenugha maintained that Governor Soludo as one who is enthroning a livable and prosperous Anambra, takes education as a key priority.

She reaffirmed that Governor Soludo’s vision remains central to every meaningful discussion on education in Anambra State noting that over time, his administration has demonstrated visible footprints in the areas of tertiary and higher education, reflecting his belief that governance and education are fundamentally interconnected.

Prof. Omenugha further highlighted that sustaining quality education in Anambra State requires aligning with a leader who understands and has personally been shaped by the same system. She added that genuine gratitude for progress in the sector should be expressed through collective solidarity and support for his vision.

She described the governor not only by his popular title “Olu Atu Egwu” but also as “the bright eagle of Ndị Anambra, a symbol which represents leadership and intellectual strength.

In a compelling keynote address, Barr. Osita Chidoka tackled the critical intersection of education and development in Nigeria, emphasizing the imperative for Anambra State to remain steadfast in its course under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s leadership. He noted the imminent changes on the global horizon, asserting that “the world is about to change,” and highlighted Governor Soludo’s understanding of this pivotal moment. Chidoka stated that success is not a matter of luck but rather a result of focus and perseverance, urging stakeholders to harness these qualities in their efforts to advance education.

Barr. Chidoka also framed education as a fundamental justice issue rather than a mere charity initiative, calling for a collective re-commitment to the educational transformation already underway in the state. He stressed the importance of investing in education as a vital component of sustainable development, advocating for another four-year commitment under Governor Soludo to deepen the ongoing changes in the state.

Earlier, the summit facilitator, Prof Casimir Ani also lent his voice in supporting the educational revolution Governor Soludo has brought to bear in the education sector. He called on the members of the academic community, and indeed, ndi Anambra to continue to support Governor Soludo as the State gears up for Governorship election come November 8 2025.

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