From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Nigeria’s education reform drive has received a major international endorsement, with former Tanzanian President and Chairman of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) Board, Jakaya Kikwete, commending the sweeping reforms being championed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, saying they have elevated the country’s standing in global education.
Kikwete gave the commendation during a meeting with Alausa ahead of the Global Education Summit scheduled for September, where President Bola Tinubu will co-chair the high-level gathering alongside Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni.
He congratulated the minister on the progress recorded in Nigeria’s education sector, describing the ongoing reforms as a clear demonstration of the country’s commitment to improving learning outcomes and building a stronger education system.
The former Tanzanian leader noted that Nigeria’s growing prominence within the Global Partnership for Education reflects the impact of the reforms and the country’s increasing role in shaping global education priorities.
As Chairman of the GPE Board, Kikwete said Alausa’s membership of the board underscores Nigeria’s active contribution to expanding access to quality education and influencing international education policies.
He also expressed optimism ahead of the September summit, which is expected to mobilise greater global investment and strengthen international partnerships to improve access to quality education worldwide.
Responding, Alausa thanked Kikwete for his longstanding contributions to education and leadership development across Africa and the world.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for all your service to Africa, to the world, and to the children of the world for all the things you continue to do to support foundational education.”
The minister also acknowledged Kikwete’s commitment to mentoring young leaders, describing his efforts as an inspiration for transformative leadership and sustainable development across the continent.
Alausa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to deepening education reforms under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through stronger partnerships, increased investment and evidence-based policies aimed at improving learning outcomes and expanding access to quality education.
He assured that the Federal Ministry of Education would continue working closely with the Global Partnership for Education and other international partners to build a resilient, inclusive and future-ready education system capable of equipping Nigerian learners with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in the 21st century.
(The Sun)
