Federal University of Education, Kontagora Hosts Conference on Institutional Reform and Leadership
The Federal University of Education, Kontagora (FUEK) has taken a significant step in advancing leadership in the education sector by organizing the Human Capital Development Conference, held on June 23, 2025, at the NCCE Conference Hall, Abuja. The event, supported by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), drew participation from key education stakeholders including SSUCOEN […]
The Federal University of Education, Kontagora (FUEK) has taken a significant step in advancing leadership in the education sector by organizing the Human Capital Development Conference, held on June 23, 2025, at the NCCE Conference Hall, Abuja. The event, supported by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), drew participation from key education stakeholders including SSUCOEN delegates, provosts, registrars, and bursars from various Colleges of Education.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Paulinus Chijioke Okwelle, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), called for a bold institutional reform in Nigeria’s education sector, anchored on effective administration and proactive conflict resolution. According to him, addressing the systemic challenges in the sector requires not just improved infrastructure and funding, but a reorientation of leadership and administrative processes.
Professor Okwelle emphasized that effective administration and institutional harmony are fundamental for achieving sustainable transformation. He described good governance in education as a blend of visionary leadership, transparent management, and inclusive practices that shape institutional culture and accountability. He added that administrators must be equipped to lead with integrity, using data and technology to enhance efficiency.
Touching on conflict resolution, Professor Okwelle noted that while disputes are inevitable in institutional settings, they can be turned into opportunities for reform when addressed through dialogue, mediation, and negotiation. He stressed that a culture that embraces emotional intelligence, professional development, and clear communication is key to lasting institutional stability.
The NCCE boss reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to guiding colleges of education through reform by promoting innovation, ICT integration, and modern monitoring systems. He also acknowledged the vital role of SSUCOEN in maintaining industrial harmony and urged the union to sustain its constructive advocacy approach in working with institutional leadership.
Chairman of the occasion, Professor Francis Adedayo Faduyile, OON, echoed these sentiments, stating that leadership development, transparent communication, and deliberate conflict resolution are vital for repositioning educational institutions. He advocated for a professional environment that supports staff welfare, unity, and collaboration to enable Nigeria’s colleges of education to thrive.
The Chief Host, Professor Faruk Rashid Haruna, Acting Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Kontagora, extended a warm welcome to participants at the opening of the Human Capital Development Conference, describing the gathering as a critical step toward addressing pressing issues in the education sector. He commended the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for its unwavering support and investment in human capital development, noting that such efforts made the conference possible.
Professor Haruna emphasized that effective administration forms the backbone of any successful institution, while the ability to resolve conflicts peacefully is vital for sustaining a productive academic environment. He called on participants to seize the opportunity to share ideas, build partnerships, and explore innovative strategies for institutional transformation. As the conference progresses, he urged stakeholders to engage deeply, learn from one another, and commit to lasting reforms that would strengthen the foundation of Nigeria’s colleges of education.
The opening ceremony concluded with a group photograph of participants, followed by a technical session that formally launched the conference proceedings.