Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has warned that weak university systems and poor global rankings could undermine Africa’s long-term economic growth and development.
Mr Jonathan said African countries must treat higher education as a strategic investment, arguing that universities play a crucial role in producing the skilled workforce, researchers and innovators needed to drive sustainable development.
He raised concerns over the performance of African universities in global rankings, stressing that the continent’s educational institutions must be strengthened to compete effectively with their counterparts around the world.
According to him, improving the quality of higher education would require greater investment in infrastructure, research, technology and academic development, alongside policies that enable universities to attract and retain highly qualified scholars.
Mr Jonathan said African governments could not achieve meaningful economic transformation without addressing challenges affecting the continent’s education sector.
He urged policymakers, universities and other stakeholders to work together to create institutions capable of producing graduates equipped to respond to Africa’s changing economic and technological needs.
The former president’s comments come amid growing calls for African countries to prioritise education, research and innovation as part of efforts to accelerate economic growth and reduce dependence on external expertise.
He said stronger universities would not only improve Africa’s position in global rankings but also help build the human capital required to drive the continent’s future prosperity.
