THE Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, C Don  Adinuba, has tasked universities in the country to link up with world-class universities to evolve joint degree programmes.

Adinuba said they could structure their curriculum to be in tune with realities of modern era, through dual degree programmes award with world class institutions to enable them to compete favourably well.

The commissioner was speaking during the 5th International Conference, with the theme: “Glocalising The African Society for Sustainable Development’’, organized by the Faculty of Social Sciences, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, University (COOU), Igbariam Campus.

Adinuba, who was also honoured by the faculty with an award in recognition of his contributions to academic excellence in the university, described the concept as indispensable in global best practices.

He challenged the nation’s universities to engage in joint degree programmes and adapt the style of teaching, choice of books in line with that of world class universities in London and the U.S.

“Our universities don’t measure at all; they operate below standard and the poor quality of instructions reflects in the performance of their graduates and lecturers.

“What they have to do is to link up to world class institutions, not through exchange programmes, but through award of the same degrees by way of joint degree programmes,’’ Adinuba said.

While describing the nation’s university system as lagging behind, he pointed out that University of Ibadan operated joint programme with the University of London when it produced the likes of Chinua Achebe.

He called on the authorities in universities to embrace the global trend to raise standards, improve depth of knowledge and enhance ICT driven learning system.

“It is unfortunate that our universities of today cannot produce the manpower to take us to the next level. The curriculum of our universities is at least 25 years out of date,’’ he said.

– July 12, 2019 @ 11:43 GMT |