The Vice Chancellor of Highstone Global University, Prof. Theophilus Aku Ugah, has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to urgently re-model the country’s educational curriculum to better reflect national developmental goals and the socio-economic realities of Nigerian society. Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, Prof. Ugah emphasized the critical need for the government to shift focus from foreign-oriented academic standards to a more localized and development-driven educational approach.
Prof. Ugah, who recently assumed leadership of Highstone Global University—a United States based online institution, advocated for a curriculum overhaul that supports knowledge generation aimed at solving Africa’s specific problems. He noted that the continuous reliance on foreign content in Nigeria’s education system undermines the country’s ability to address its unique challenges. According to him, the curriculum must be adapted to encourage research and innovation that are locally relevant and culturally appropriate, especially in areas such as health, technology, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Highstone Global University, which operates from Texas, USA, with a mission to serve African students through online academic models, was recently licensed by the Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria. Prof. Ugah stressed that the university’s model is designed to bridge the gap in access to education and improve affordability for students across Africa. The institution is fully accredited by international bodies, and it offers academic programs that align with global best practices while maintaining focus on African realities.
During his address, Prof. Ugah unveiled a 30-year development strategy aimed at positioning Highstone Global University among the top 100 universities globally. He stated that the institution would adopt ethical leadership, transparency, and strict adherence to standards as key principles in achieving its long-term goals. The development strategy also includes plans to partner with local and international institutions, leverage digital technology for knowledge dissemination, and develop a research agenda targeted at sustainable development in Africa.
In support of Prof. Ugah’s remarks, Prof. Biodun Akinpelu of the Lagos State University (LASU) emphasized the importance of revamping Nigeria’s educational content to align with modern realities. He stated that a strategic shift towards online and vocational education is necessary to meet the growing demands of the Nigerian student population. According to Prof. Akinpelu, the current system is too theory-driven and does not equip students with practical skills needed to thrive in today’s job market.
Both academic leaders highlighted the importance of adopting technological solutions to improve access to quality education. Prof. Ugah particularly emphasized the transformative potential of online universities in expanding reach and bridging gaps in the traditional educational system. He asserted that the government must consider new models like Highstone Global University as viable and effective alternatives in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
The conversation around educational reform in Nigeria has gained momentum in recent years, with increasing calls from academic stakeholders for a more practical and solution-oriented curriculum. Prof. Ugah’s proposal adds to a growing body of expert opinions suggesting that Nigeria’s current educational structure no longer meets the demands of a rapidly changing world, especially in the areas of innovation, digital literacy, and job creation.
The Federal Ministry of Education has previously indicated plans to review and restructure the national curriculum, particularly at the secondary and tertiary levels, to enhance employability and align learning outcomes with real-world needs. Initiatives such as the inclusion of vocational studies in early education and the establishment of technical colleges have already begun, although implementation remains inconsistent across the country.
Prof. Ugah concluded by urging policymakers to take immediate and decisive steps in reworking the nation’s curriculum. He stressed that if Nigeria’s education system is to contribute meaningfully to national development and global competitiveness, it must depart from outdated models and fully embrace a curriculum that reflects indigenous values, entrepreneurial skills, and technological innovation.