Education Is Key: Presidency urges youth to reject ‘school is a scam’ mindset

The Presidency has called on Nigerian youths to abandon the belief that education is a scam, encouraging them to take advantage of the various initiatives and programs introduced by President Bola Tinubu to enhance education, youth empowerment, and leadership development.

This message was delivered by Ms. Rinsola Abiola, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, during the inaugural Next Generation Engagement held at the Coronation Hall in Kano.

The initiative, known as the “Next Generation Project,” aims to promote civic education and develop youth leadership, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA).

Speaking to an audience of senior secondary school students, Abiola highlighted that the Renewed Hope administration recognizes education as essential for equipping young people for a prosperous future. She noted several support programs, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which offers interest-free loans to tertiary education students who need assistance with their tuition fees.

She stressed the significance of education in shaping youth and fostering leadership, stating, “I want to encourage you to please take your education very seriously. Studies have shown that the greater the level of education attained, the higher the capacity to earn. What this means is that education holds the key to a more prosperous future and we must therefore prioritize it.”

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“Contrary to what some people say, school is not a scam in any way because no matter the nature of the job or business, an enlightened and educated person will approach it in a more efficient and organized way,” she added.

Abiola further explained that President Tinubu recognizes the vital role education plays in society, which is why the Renewed Hope administration has established NELFUND to support students in need.

In addition to academic pursuits, she urged students to “take concepts such as democracy and nation-building very seriously.” She encouraged them to engage as active citizens who fulfill their civic responsibilities as they come of age, participate in community development, and use the internet and social media responsibly to explore greater opportunities and learning experiences.

The event also saw participation from various officials of the Kano State Government, while representatives from the Kano State command of the NDLEA informed students about the dangers of substance abuse. The program included a mentorship session featuring notable public servant Dr. Kabir Sufi, Khalifa Mustapha, founder of Enthuse Entrepreneurship Secondary School in Kano, and Bahijjah Shehu Bawa, founder of the cosmetic brand Bee-Jay Beauty.

Further activities in the Next Generation Project are set to be held in Adamawa, Niger, Cross River, Abia, and Ogun states.

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