A former Minister of Training, Prof. Tunde Adeniran, has described the prevalence of faux certificates from international universities as a “tragedy” undermining Nigeria’s schooling system.
In an interview revealed by Saturday PUNCH, Adeniran mentioned that the obsession over paper {qualifications} in Nigeria reveals deep flaws in societal values.
“We appear to be giving numerous consideration to paper certificates. Individuals simply come and say, ‘Okay, what we require is the college certificates.’ When you produce it, that’s the finish,” he remarked.
This angle has resulted in supposed graduates who can barely write, whereas individuals with pretend international certificates get jobs and positions they don’t deserve, the previous minister mentioned.
To sort out this, Adeniran mentioned, “Our recruitment processes should be extra diligent, cautious, and thorough.”
In line with him, {qualifications} needs to be verified to make sure candidates have the correct abilities and coaching.
The ex-minister who additionally famous that neighbouring international locations will help by respecting Nigeria’s strict requirements, nevertheless, careworn that “the duty lies with Nigerians.”
Adeniran beneficial beginning with the Nationwide Council of Training formulating options, reorienting Nigeria’s schooling leaders to worth studying over papers, and educating society that nationwide growth relies on correct schooling.
He additionally referred to as for enhancing the abilities and motivation of inspectors verifying {qualifications}.
Throughout his tenure, Adeniran mentioned he prioritised visitation panels to make sure high quality management at universities.
The previous minister reiterated, “We should take schooling extra severely somewhat than obsessing over nugatory international certificates.
“Extra sturdy legal guidelines with harsh penalties for fakes are wanted.”
Adeniran famous that whereas he envisions that know-how might assist detect fraudulent certificates, past that, performing decisively on findings is essential.
He mentioned, “It isn’t nearly discovering out; to seek out out, sure, know-how may be very helpful.”