The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has said the government must prioritise transformative action in key areas of education, healthcare, and economic empowerment to create a future of shared prosperity and opportunity for all Commonwealth citizens.
Prof. Mamman who stated this on Monday at an event to mark the 2024 Commonwealth Day in Abuja, said education stands at the heart of their collective aspirations for a better future.
“It is the foundation of empowerment, drives social mobility, promotes innovation and nurtures the leaders of tomorrow. Therefore, investing in quality education for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic background, must remain a top priority for all Commonwealth nations,” he said.
He said the theme, “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Commonwealth”, is very apt and touches on the peculiar challenges facing the dissemination of education in Nigeria.
“As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, we must embrace the principles of sustainability and inclusivity in education and all other aspects of our development agenda,” he said.
The minister said it entails promoting green technologies, empowering marginalised communities, and fostering partnerships that leave no one behind.
“In the education sector, we must recommit ourselves to the ideals of the Commonwealth-unity in diversity, and shared prosperity. Together, we have the power to shape a future where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our common wealth,” he said.
He said while commemorating the Commonwealth, “we must not forget that education is a common wealth that benefits the entire society for the collective well-being and future prosperity of our nation and other Commonwealth countries.”
Earlier, the Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu, said this year’s theme underscores the collective efforts required to harness their common wealth, shared resources, talents, and aspirations to effect positive change and transformation.
He reiterates that quality education improves literacy rates, enhances skills, nurtures innovation, and empowers individuals to participate effectively in the workforce and society.
He said the ministry is providing ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers to ensure they have the skills and knowledge to effectively foster resilience in their students.
