2019 Presidential Debate: Education Leads Agenda

It was an electrifying moment as three presidential candidates reeled out their education agenda for the nation. Three presidential candidates attended the debate, which was shown live on Channels TV, Continental and many other television and radio stations under Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, BON: Dr. Obiageli Ezekwisili of ACPN, Prof Kingsley Moghalu of YPP and Fela Durotoye of ANN.

While the debate concentrated on education, health, economy, corruption and security., the focus of Edugist is the education agenda of the nation’s next president.

Oby Ezekwesili was the first to reveal her education agenda. She revealed that education would remain a priority in her administration.  She maintained that her government would place emphasis on child education. She stated that most teachers are semi qualified. She therefore emphasised the need for teachers training.

Durotoye promised that his government would ensure the development of specialization among teachers. He further stated that his government would ensure provision of modern infrastructure, quality education, and environment that is conducive to learning.

Moghalu revealed that his government would prioritize education. The YPP candidate said he would run an educational system driven by technology and original research. He also promised to intensify efforts to end ASUU strike in Nigeria.

On the degradation of government schools in Nigeria, Ezekwesili stated that her government would focus on the welfare of teachers to avoid incessant strikes.

Moghalu promised to provide transport systems for students in government schools. Durotoye who described himself as a product of public school system promised his government would take a punitive action against parents who do not allow their children go to school.

Girl Child Education

Moghalu who started the discussion on this said he chose a female vice president to validate his passion for the girl child. “We will make sure that our young girls are protected against early marriages,” he promised.

Durotoye described girl education as a priority for his government.

Ezekwesili, who is a co-founder of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign, itemised some challenges that keep girls out of school. She promised that her government would provide incentives for parents so they can send their children to school. She said a nation that educates the girl child would progress tremendously. She equally said families would be sensitised to the importance of education. “It is the community that will enjoy from education of the girl child.” She said.

A major concern for Nigerians, is how to know the education agenda of the other two major candidates, President Muhammadu Buhari of APC and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of PDP that failed to be part of the debate, Edugist gathered.