The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has urged teachers to embrace innovation, continuous learning and technological advancements to rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s education system.
Offiong gave the charge at the 2nd Annual Conference of the University’s College of Education (COE), themed “Restoring Trust in Education: Preparing Future-Ready Citizens for the Knowledge Economy,” held at the Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre, UNICAL.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Linkages and Collaboration, Prof. Anthony Egrinya Eneji, the Vice-Chancellor identified infrastructural deficits and inadequate professional development as major challenges facing the education sector.
He stressed that educators must continually update their knowledge and skills to remain relevant in the digital age, particularly with the rapid development of artificial intelligence.
“We must be updated in the era of artificial intelligence and advancements in technology,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also expressed concern over declining public confidence in education, calling for collective efforts by teachers, government and other stakeholders to improve learning outcomes.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Nath Abraham, Dean of the Faculty of Education, University of Port Harcourt, described trust as essential to effective relationships among parents, students, teachers, employers and government.
He emphasised that educational leadership should go beyond academic rankings to promote research, character development, employability and responsible citizenship.
Similarly, the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Prof. Stephen Odey, highlighted literacy, critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration as vital skills for preparing learners for the knowledge economy.
He maintained that restoring trust requires transparency, accountability and deliberate efforts from all stakeholders.
The conference also featured academic awards to Prof. S.B.C. Iheanacho, Prof. Arikpo Bassey Arikpo and Prof. Lucas Ogunjimi in recognition of their contributions to human capital development and service to the University.
The event brought together academics, policymakers, education administrators and government officials to discuss strategies for strengthening trust, innovation and excellence in Nigeria’s education sector.
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