The Honourable commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo has urged educators, researchers, and policymakers to embrace innovation and collaboration as critical tools for addressing the challenges facing today’s educational landscape.
He made this remark recently at the 9th Annual Conference on Education, Research and New Development which was organiseled by the International Association of Researchers and Administrators at the Public Service Staff Development Centre, Magodo, Lagos.
The Commissioner emphasised the transformative power of education and research, describing them as fundamental to societal progress. “Education and research are powerful tools for transformation, empowering individuals, enriching communities and driving national development,” he noted, calling for a unified approach to steer the evolution of education towards inclusivity and resilience.
Mr. Ayantayo also highlighted the importance of adaptability, pointing out that the world’s rapid pace demands educational systems capable of evolving to remain relevant. He stressed that education must go beyond knowledge transfer, equipping learners with critical thinking skills, adaptability and creativity, adding that such skills are essential as students face challenges that are often complex and multidimensional.
The Commissioner also harped on the need for a supportive ecosystem for educational research, one that fosters intellectual curiosity and rigorous inquiry. He advocated increased funding, mentorship, and academic freedom to encourage researchers to explore new ideas and drive educational advancement.
By creating an environment that welcomes innovative thinking, Mr. Ayantayo said educational institutions could produce insights that would shape the future and build a resilient education system.
The Conference, which gathered experts to foster constructive discussions, share new perspectives, and forge professional relationships as part of its objectives, was lauded by the Commissioner as timely and essential.
Whilst commending efforts to integrate digital tools and platforms into teaching and learning, he stated that there was a need to continue pursuing investment in digital infrastructure to keep pace with the needs of modern learners.
The keynote address by the Honourable Commissioner set a hopeful and ambitious tone, underscoring the urgency of transforming education to better serve future generations. He said ICERND24 provides an essential platform for addressing these pressing issues, encouraging stakeholders to work together to reshape education and research for a brighter, more inclusive future.
