Former university lecturer Calls for Urgent Reforms in Osun Education Sector Ahead of 2026 Election

A chartered management consultant and former university lecturer, Dipo Awojide, has called for comprehensive reforms in the education sector in Osun State, urging the next administration to prioritise policies that will transform public education across the state.

In a policy commentary released ahead of the 2026 governorship election, Awojide criticised the handling of the education sector under the administration of Ademola Adeleke, particularly the pace of teacher recruitment and broader systemic challenges affecting public schools.

He noted that shortly after assuming office in November 2022, the current administration disengaged about 1,500 teachers and later promised to recruit 5,000 new ones. However, he observed that only 526 successful candidates were recently invited to collect their appointment letters after a recruitment process that lasted nearly three years.

The development, he said, raises questions about the timing of the appointments, coming just months before the next gubernatorial election in the state.

Awojide, who spent nearly 15 years in academia — including roles as a PhD student, graduate teaching assistant, lecturer, and senior lecturer at Nottingham Trent University and Sheffield Hallam University in the United Kingdom — said his observations were based on years of research and engagement with education policy.

He explained that he deliberately waited for the Adeleke administration to settle into office before offering public criticism or recommendations regarding the sector.

According to him, the evidence available over the past three years suggests that the education sector has not received the level of priority required to address longstanding challenges.

Awojide argued that Osun State now requires a transformational government that will implement long-term reforms capable of delivering meaningful improvements in teaching and learning outcomes.

Among his key recommendations is the urgent rehabilitation and development of school infrastructure across the state. He said many public schools suffer from dilapidated classrooms, inadequate laboratories, poor sanitation facilities, and a lack of clean water.

He also emphasised the importance of continuous training and retraining for teachers and school administrators to ensure they remain professionally competent and equipped to deliver modern teaching methods.

The policy analyst further urged the next administration to prioritise teachers’ welfare through performance-based incentives, structured career progression pathways, and timely payment of salaries and benefits.

In addition, Awojide called for a comprehensive curriculum refresh with a stronger focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). He proposed the creation of model STEM schools in each senatorial district as well as the introduction of statewide competitions and mentorship programmes to encourage innovation among students.

He also stressed the need for significant investment in digital and technology literacy, suggesting initiatives such as a state digital learning portal, smart classrooms equipped with tablets and internet access, and a centralised electronic database for students in primary and secondary schools.

Other proposals include the establishment of pre-primary “Sure Start” centres, the introduction of attendance and truancy policies, improved health and safety standards in schools, and the development of specialised education policies for students with learning disabilities.

Awojide concluded that urgent intervention is required to revitalise public schools in Osun State, stressing that quality basic education must be treated as a priority.

“Public schools must be decent, future-proof learning environments where students are taught by competent and motivated teachers,” he said.

Awojide, who currently works in the United Kingdom’s defence and security industry, hails from Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State.