Lagos: The First Class Muslim Foundation has called on the Federal Government to offer rewards comparable to those given to distinguished athletes to first-class graduates from Nigerian institutions.
Dr Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, the Chairman, Board of Incorporated Trustees of the foundation, made the call during the M-First Series 7 for First Class Muslim Graduates, on Wednesday in Lagos.
Ogunmuyiwa said that such rewards by the government to students who achieved first-class degrees would encourage academic excellence.
He emphasised that focusing on education was crucial for improving both academic standards and the country’s development.
Ogunmuyiwa commended the government’s student loan scheme and appealed for more appreciation and rewards for first-class graduates.
“I thank the government for introducing the student loan scheme. I want them to do more by allocating the same amount of N100 million each to each student who achieves first-class results.
“If we can do this, we will realise that almost all Nigerian students will be willing to make a first class, and this will boost academics in Nigeria.
“We are training the graduates, and it is a necessity. We look forward to a time when we can adequately reward first-class students in Nigeria. If we do this, it will encourage many young people to view education and scholarship as a serious endeavour.
“I also think that the government can change the tide by focusing more on education and encouraging scholarship. This is the reason why other countries are doing better in education than Nigeria,” he said.
The educationist also urged all levels of government to increase investment in education.
“The government must seek ways to improve funding in education, and this is one of the surest means to develop.
“When you educate people, you have empowered them. What Nigerian students need is to be empowered with adequate quality education, so that we can stop going outside the country to learn,” he said.
During the three-day annual workshop for select 51 First-Class Muslim graduates across Nigerian universities, experts in various fields took turns to mentor the students.
They were trained on critical thinking, networking, harnessing potential and exploring international study opportunities.
Among those who mentored the graduates were Mr Ibraheem Abdul, the Rector of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) and Dr Nurudeen Olaleye, the Rector of Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH).
The rectors of YABATECH and LASPOTECH urged the graduates not to relent in achieving excellence after bagging first-class degrees.
Abdul, the Rector of YABATECH, said: “Earning a first-class degree is a remarkable achievement, a milestone that reflects dedication, discipline and intellectual brilliance.
“However, do not imagine that the qualification you have acquired is the height of your career. Instead, consider it the beginning. It is the hallmark of an educated mind to recognise that there is no such thing as too much learning.
“Open your mind to the possibilities in your world and devote yourself to lifelong learning and self-development. Always remember that you are worthy of your best dreams,” he said.
