14 Nigerian Federal Universities to Pioneer New Student Entrepreneurship Program

 

The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Education, officially unveiled the Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Business Incubation Certification (EIBIC) program on Friday, March 27, 2026. 

This initiative is designed as a compulsory scheme for students in higher institutions to transform them from job seekers into job creators. In its first phase, the program will be rolled out across 14 pioneer federal universities, including the University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, and Bayero University, Kano, with plans to expand to all 74 federal universities by 2027.

During the unveiling in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that EIBIC is intended to integrate practical business training into diverse academic disciplines such as medicine, law, engineering, and the creative arts. By running these certification courses alongside traditional degrees, the government aims to bridge the long standing gap between formal education and the practical requirements of the 21st century economy. Vice Chancellors of the participating institutions have been directed to fast track the approval process within their respective senates to ensure a smooth launch before the end of the year.

The program's rollout comes at a time of significant reform within the Nigerian education sector. Alongside EIBIC, the government has been promoting the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has already disbursed billions of Naira in tuition and upkeep allowances to over one million students. These combined efforts are part of a broader strategy to stabilize the academic calendar and provide financial support while simultaneously equipping graduates with the technical and entrepreneurial skills necessary to drive national innovation.

Experts and student leaders have largely welcomed the initiative, noting that it could significantly reduce the high rates of youth unemployment. Prof. Sunday Adebisi, a subject matter expert for the project, stated that EIBIC would strengthen industry links by providing students with real world economic insights and business incubation opportunities. As the program scales up to include polytechnics and colleges of education by 2028, it is expected to become a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope agenda, fostering a new generation of skilled professionals ready to compete on a global scale.

Spanish School Lunches: A Lesson in Freshness from Seville

 

Addy Blakeney, an American expat working in a Seville school for nearly two years, has highlighted a stark contrast between the dining culture in Spanish schools and those in the United States. 

The most significant difference lies in the quality and preparation of the food, which focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients rather than processed or prepackaged meals. In Seville, school lunches are treated as a vital part of the educational day, where students sit down to multi course meals that often include vegetable based soups, fresh fish or poultry, and seasonal fruits for dessert.

The structure of the meal itself is designed to foster healthy eating habits from a young age. Unlike the quick, 20 minute refueling sessions common in many Western schools, the lunch break in Seville is a slower, more social affair. Blakeney notes that children are encouraged to try a variety of Mediterranean staples, such as lentils, chickpeas, and olive oil based dishes. This exposure to diverse flavors and whole foods helps prevent the picky eater syndrome and integrates nutritional education directly into the daily routine of the students.

Another key takeaway from Blakeney’s experience is the noticeable absence of high sugar snacks and sodas within the school gates. The Spanish comedor dining hall typically prohibits ultra processed foods, opting instead for water as the primary beverage. This policy is supported by local regional guidelines that prioritize the Mediterranean diet, which is globally recognized for its health benefits. By limiting access to junk food and focusing on balanced nutrition, the school environment in Seville actively combats childhood obesity and promotes sustained energy levels for afternoon classes.

Ultimately, Blakeney’s observations suggest that the Spanish approach to school food is as much about culture as it is about calories. The emphasis on comida casera home cooked food even in a large scale institutional setting reflects a societal value placed on culinary heritage and well being. For educators and parents following her journey, these insights offer a compelling argument for reform in school lunch programs elsewhere, proving that serving fresh, nutritious meals is not only possible but essential for a child’s development and long term health.

Emerald College of Education Announces 2025/2026 Part-Time Admissions

Emerald College of Education in Abuja, in affiliation with the prestigious University of Ilorin, has officially opened its doors for the 2025/2026 academic session. This part time program is specifically designed to cater to working professionals, teachers seeking to upgrade their qualifications, and individuals who require a flexible learning schedule. By partnering with the University of Ilorin, the college ensures that students receive a curriculum that meets high national standards, ultimately leading to recognized certifications that are highly valued in the Nigerian job market.

The available courses cover a wide range of educational specialties, including Primary Education, Early Childhood Care, and various subject specific teaching tracks. This variety allows aspiring educators to choose a path that aligns with their career goals or current teaching roles. Because the program is part time, lectures are typically scheduled during weekends or holiday periods, making it possible for students to maintain their full time employment while pursuing their National Certificate in Education (NCE) or relevant degree upgrades.

Prospective students are encouraged to apply early, as the part time format is popular among those living in the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding states. The admission process generally requires candidates to present their O'Level results with credits in relevant subjects, including English and Mathematics. As an affiliate institution, Emerald College provides the benefit of a serene learning environment in Abuja combined with the academic rigor and reputation of one of Nigeria’s leading federal universities, offering a unique best of both worlds experience for its students.

For those looking to advance their careers in the education sector, this admission cycle represents a critical window of opportunity. The college has streamlined its registration process to be user friendly, providing guidance for applicants navigating the requirements for the 2025/2026 session. As the demand for qualified educators continues to grow across Nigeria, obtaining a qualification through such a structured and affiliated program can significantly enhance a graduate's professional standing and long term earning potential within the school system.

Minnesota Public Universities to Maintain Immigrant Tuition Benefits

 

A federal judge has ruled that Minnesota’s public universities can continue to offer in state tuition and state funded scholarships to certain students without legal status. The decision, handed down on March 27, 2026, dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice that sought to block these programs. The ruling provides significant relief to thousands of students who rely on the Minnesota Dream Act to make higher education affordable, ensuring that their current financial arrangements remain intact for the upcoming academic terms.

The lawsuit had argued that Minnesota’s policy flagrantly violated federal law by providing preferential benefits to undocumented immigrants that are not available to all U.S. citizens. Specifically, the challenge noted that a U.S. citizen from another state would have to pay higher out of state rates, while an undocumented student who attended a Minnesota high school for three years could access the lower in state rate. However, U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez determined that the federal government failed to prove discrimination, noting that the policy is based on high school attendance and residency rather than immigration status itself.

Officials from the University of Minnesota and other state institutions have praised the decision, emphasizing that these programs are vital for developing a skilled local workforce. They argue that excluding students who have grown up in the state and graduated from its high schools would create unnecessary economic barriers and sideline talented individuals. By allowing these students to access the North Star Promise a program that covers tuition for families earning less than $80,000 the state maintains its commitment to making college accessible to all its long term residents.

While the ruling is a victory for proponents of tuition equity, the legal battle highlights a deepening national divide over immigrant access to public benefits. Similar challenges have been mirrored in states like Texas and Kentucky, where the intersection of state residency laws and federal immigration policy continues to be a point of contention. For now, students in Minnesota can proceed with their studies without the immediate threat of losing their financial aid, though lawmakers and legal experts expect the debate over the use of taxpayer funds for these programs to persist.

Global Out of School Population Hits 273 Million

In a sobering update released yesterday, UNESCO’s 2026 Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report revealed that the number of children and youth excluded from education has climbed for the seventh consecutive year. Reaching a staggering 273 million, the figure highlights a widening gap in global learning equity. According to the report, one in six school age children worldwide is currently out of the classroom, a trend driven largely by rapid population growth, persistent regional conflicts, and shrinking national education budgets.

The report specifically flagged subSaharan Africa as the region facing the most acute crisis, where progress has decelerated sharply since 2015. In conflict zones, the situation is even more dire, as millions of children displaced by violence are often missing from official statistics entirely. UNESCO Director General Khaled ElEnany noted that while primary and secondary enrollment has risen by 30% since the turn of the century, these gains are being swallowed by systemic crises that leave the world’s most vulnerable learners behind.

Beyond the raw data, the report emphasized the silent crisis of learning poverty, where even those in school often fail to acquire basic literacy. In low income countries, the study found that nearly 70% of 10 year olds are unable to understand a simple written text, a statistic that has stagnated despite increased global attention. UNESCO is calling for an immediate emergency pivot in international aid, urging wealthier nations to meet the long standing target of allocating 0.7% of their gross national income to official development assistance.

As governments digest these findings, the focus now shifts to the upcoming United Nations Education Summit, where global leaders are expected to propose a new Global Education Pact. The proposed framework aims to secure guaranteed funding for digital infrastructure in remote areas and teacher training programs in crisis hit regions. Without a coordinated and rapid intervention, UNESCO officials warned yesterday that the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all will remain a distant and unachievable dream.

U.S. Celebrates FAFSA Milestone with 10 Million Forms Completed

The U.S. Department of Education reached a major milestone yesterday, announcing that more than 10 million students and parents have successfully submitted the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This figure represents a massive 487% increase compared to the same period in the previous cycle. Officials attributed the surge to the earliest FAFSA launch in the program's history and a revamped digital interface designed to prevent the technical glitches and delays that frustrated applicants in years past.

In addition to the high filing volume, the Department introduced new transparency tools yesterday, including an updated Earnings Indicator on the College Scorecard. This feature provides families with clear data on post graduation income for specific institutions, aiming to help students make more informed financial decisions about their degrees. Education Secretary Linda McMahon stated that the record breaking pace of applications is a testament to improved management and a renewed focus on making higher education accessible and affordable for all American families.

The success of the current cycle is being viewed as a significant redemption for the Department after last year’s Better FAFSA rollout was marred by processing errors and late data transfers to universities. By moving the launch date up to October 1st and stabilizing the backend software, federal authorities have allowed high school counselors and financial aid offices more time to assist low income and first generation students. This early momentum is expected to result in higher college enrollment rates for the upcoming fall semester.

Moving forward, the Department plans to expand its outreach to underserved communities through a series of FAFSA Fast Track workshops across the country. These events will offer one on one technical support to ensure that the remaining pool of eligible students can access the billions of dollars available in Pell Grants and federal loans. With the 10 million mark surpassed months ahead of schedule, officials are optimistic that the 2026-27 cycle will set an all time record for total completed applications by the summer deadline.

NOUN Appoints New Head of New Media, and NELFUND Disburses ₦2.1 Billion to Students at UNIOSUN and KIU

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has officially appointed Mr. Ambrose B. Gowong as the Head of its newly established New Media Unit. Approved by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Uduma Oji Uduma, this strategic move aims to centralize and professionalize the university's digital presence. Mr. Gowong, a seasoned media professional with advanced degrees in Mass Communication, will now oversee content development, brand positioning, and digital archiving to enhance the institution's visibility across emerging media platforms.

In addition to his administrative duties, Mr. Gowong has been designated as the official compere for the university’s social functions, underscoring his versatile role in NOUN’s communication strategy. His appointment is seen as a vital step in adapting the university to the evolving digital landscape, ensuring that information dissemination remains timely and effective. The institution has encouraged all internal stakeholders, from faculties to study centers, to collaborate with this new unit to streamline official messaging.

On the financial side of education, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) announced a major milestone with the disbursement of ₦2,109,980,200 to support students for the 2025/2026 academic session. This massive funding is targeted at 7,382 students from Osun State University (UNIOSUN) and Kashim Ibrahim University (KIU). A significant portion of this total, approximately ₦2.03 billion, was allocated to 5,924 beneficiaries at UNIOSUN across six different payment batches.

Meanwhile, Kashim Ibrahim University received a combined total of ₦71.4 million, benefiting 1,458 students. NELFUND confirmed that these institutional loans are designed to cover tuition and other academic charges, directly removing financial barriers for eligible students. This disbursement is part of a broader national effort that has seen over ₦206 billion released to more than 1.16 million students across 270 tertiary institutions, reinforcing the government's commitment to accessible higher education in Nigeria.

Nigeria to Scrap Common Entrance Exams and Introduce Student ID Numbers

In a major overhaul of the national education system, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to abolish the long standing Junior Secondary School Common Entrance Examination. This decision, disclosed by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, marks a significant shift away from high stakes testing toward a more holistic evaluation process. 

The government intends to replace the traditional exam with a Continuous Assessment (CA) model, which will track a pupil's academic performance progressively from their very first year in primary school.

To support this new transition, the Ministry is introducing a unique Learner Identification Number (LIN) for every student. This digital tracking system is designed to follow a child throughout their entire academic journey, regardless of whether they transfer between schools or move across different states. 

By assigning a permanent ID to each learner, the government aims to create a reliable database that ensures no student "disappears" from the system during the critical transition from primary to secondary education.

The reform is largely driven by alarming statistics showing a massive drop off in school enrollment. According to recent data, while Nigeria has over 23 million pupils enrolled in public primary schools, only about 3 million of them successfully transition to junior secondary schools. 

This staggering gap of 20 million missing students has highlighted a crisis of access and retention that the government believes can only be solved by removing the bottleneck of a single, make or break entrance examination.

Beyond tracking, the Minister emphasized that this initiative will force a higher level of accountability for state governments. By identifying exactly where students are dropping out, the federal government can better pressure states to build more secondary schools to accommodate the millions currently left behind. 

Additionally, there are concurrent plans to revive and stabilize the National School Feeding Programme, integrating it more closely with these digital reforms to provide an extra incentive for families to keep their children in the classroom.

Educators and stakeholders have largely welcomed the move, noting that a continuous assessment approach reduces the immense psychological pressure placed on young children. By focusing on long-term growth rather than a one day test, the new system aims to foster a more genuine love for learning. 

As Nigeria moves toward a more data driven educational framework in 2026, the success of these reforms will ultimately depend on the seamless integration of the new ID system and the consistent funding of school infrastructure nationwide.

JAMB summons 94 candidates and institutions over registration fraud and fake certificates

 

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially summoned 94 candidates and several tertiary institutions to appear before virtual investigative panels starting today, March 18, 2026. This urgent call follows allegations of examination registration malpractice and the submission of fraudulent certificates during the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration process. The board has made it clear that any candidate who fails to attend their scheduled session will be viewed as having admitted to the charges of seeking illicit assistance.

In a statement released via its official channels, JAMB revealed that the affected candidates were identified after investigations into solicitations for illegal help with the registration exercise. Access passcodes for the virtual hearings have already been sent to the registered phone numbers of those involved. This move is part of a broader crackdown by the board to protect the integrity of the Nigerian education system and ensure that only deserving students gain admission into higher institutions based on merit.

Beyond individual students, the examination body has also turned its attention to 43 tertiary institutions, including various universities and polytechnics. These schools are being questioned after some Direct Entry applicants submitted A level certificates that the institutions themselves later flagged as unverifiable or outright fakes. By bringing the heads of these institutions into the investigation, JAMB aims to close the loopholes that allow academic racketeering to thrive within the country's admissions landscape.

This development comes at a critical time as JAMB recently announced that over 2.2 million candidates have successfully registered for the 2026 UTME, with examinations scheduled to begin on April 16th. The Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, warned that the board is using advanced technology and internal audits to root out organized criminal syndicates. For students across Nigeria, this serves as a firm reminder that following official procedures is the only safe way to secure their academic future.

Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) Disburses ₦206 Billion to Students

 

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has reached a significant milestone by successfully disbursing over ₦206 billion to more than 1.16 million students across 270 tertiary institutions nationwide. In an announcement made on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the fund's management revealed that these figures reflect the steady expansion of the scheme since its inception. The initiative, established to remove financial barriers to higher education, has now received over 1.7 million applications, demonstrating strong interest and trust from the student population.

A detailed breakdown of the spending shows that ₦128.84 billion was paid directly to the various institutions to cover tuition fees, ensuring that students remain enrolled without the threat of being barred from classes. Additionally, ₦77.45 billion was distributed directly to the beneficiaries as upkeep allowances to help manage their daily living expenses. This dual funding approach is designed to provide comprehensive support, allowing students from disadvantaged backgrounds to focus entirely on their academic performance rather than financial survival.

Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Managing Director of NELFUND, emphasized during a recent interview that no qualified student should be prevented from sitting for their examinations due to funding delays. He noted that the interest free loans come with flexible repayment options, which only begin once the beneficiary has secured employment and is in a stable position to pay back. This "student-centered" approach has been praised by university administrators, with many institutions now accepting Verified NELFUND status as sufficient proof of payment for exam registration.

The fund continues to grow, with nearly 1,000 new applications being recorded in the latest weekly update alone. This sustained momentum comes at a critical time for Nigerian students facing rising costs of living and educational materials. As NELFUND expands its reach to more specialized and vocational institutions, the government aims to create a more inclusive academic environment where talent and merit, rather than pocket size, determine a student's success in the higher education system.

University of Kent confirms one of two people who died in meningitis outbreak was one of its students

The university community is in mourning after health officials linked the student’s death to a localized spike in cases of the bacterial infection. While the identity of the individual has not been released out of respect for the family’s privacy, the institution has expressed its deepest condolences and is working closely with the bereaved to provide support during this incredibly difficult time.

Health authorities have revealed that this student was one of two individuals who recently died after contracting the illness in the region. The confirmation has sparked an immediate response from public health teams, who are currently identifying and contacting anyone who may have been in close contact with the deceased. 

These individuals are being offered preventative treatments, such as antibiotics or vaccinations, to minimize the risk of further spread within the student population and the wider local community.

In response to the outbreak, the University of Kent has increased its efforts to raise awareness about the symptoms of meningitis. 

Students are being urged to remain vigilant and look out for signs such as severe headaches, high fever, neck stiffness, and a distinctive rash that does not fade under pressure. The university’s medical services are on high alert, and officials have emphasized that early detection and rapid medical intervention are critical when 

dealing with suspected cases of this serious infection.

University leadership has reassured the public that they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their staff and students on campus. This includes hosting information sessions and providing clear guidance on how to access emergency healthcare. 

While the situation is being managed with urgency, health experts are reminding the public that while meningitis is a severe condition, the risk of a widespread epidemic remains low if preventative measures and social awareness are maintained.

The traditional path of securing a computer science degree and a few internships is no longer a guaranteed ticket into the tech industry. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, many of the tasks once reserved for entry level developers such as writing basic boilerplate code, debugging simple scripts, or performing routine quality assurance testing are now being automated. This shift has created a bottleneck at the bottom of the career ladder, where the volume of open roles for new graduates has noticeably shrunk while the expectations for their technical proficiency have skyrocketed.

Companies are increasingly pivoting their hiring budgets toward senior level talent who can oversee AI-driven workflows rather than training large cohorts of junior staff. In this new landscape, a degree is often viewed merely as a baseline requirement, with recruiters looking for AI augmented productivity. A new grad is now expected to not only understand data structures and algorithms but also demonstrate how they use Large Language Models (LLMs) to accelerate their development cycle. This transition phase has left many highly skilled candidates in a state of limbo, as they possess the fundamental knowledge but lack the years of experience that firms are now prioritizing to manage complex, AI integrated systems.

The psychological and financial toll on the Class of 2026 is significant, as many students took on debt with the expectation of high starting salaries that are now becoming harder to find. Networking has shifted from an optional advantage to a mandatory survival tactic, with many graduates spending more time on LinkedIn and at local tech meetups than they do on actual coding. The competition for the remaining entry level spots is fierce, often pitting hundreds of overqualified applicants against one another for a single position, leading to a ghosting culture where many applicants never receive a response from automated resume screening tools.

Despite these hurdles, the narrative is not entirely bleak; rather, it is one of adaptation. Educators and industry experts suggest that the most successful new grads are those who position themselves as problem solvers rather than just coders. By focusing on specialized niches like cybersecurity, AI ethics, or cloud architecture areas where human judgment and complex reasoning are still paramount graduates can differentiate themselves. The challenge lies in the speed of this transition, requiring a level of agility and continuous learning that exceeds what was expected of previous generations in the tech sector.

ADMISSION FORM OUT

Godfrey Okoye University (GOUNI) is officially inviting applications for its postgraduate programs for the 2025/2026 academic session. Whether you are looking to pursue a PGD, Master’s, or Doctorate degree, GOUNI offers a variety of courses across faculties like Management, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences. To qualify, you’ll generally need a relevant first degree with a minimum of a Second Class Lower division from a recognized university. The application process is handled through the school’s postgraduate portal, where you will fill out your details and upload necessary transcripts.

Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has also opened doors for its IJMBE (Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination) program for the 2026/2027 session. This is a fantastic Plan B for students who may not have secured admission through JAMB, as it provides a direct entry pathway into the 200 level of most Nigerian universities. Applicants must have at least five credit passes in their O'Level subjects, including English and Mathematics. The fees cover tuition and registration, and the application guide emphasizes choosing subject combinations that align with your intended future degree.

For those interested in the medical and healthcare sector, the Capable College of Health Science and Technology (CCOHSAT) has released its admission forms for 2026/2027. The college offers specialized courses such as Community Health, Pharmacy Technician studies, and Medical Laboratory Science. To apply, you need to meet the specific O'Level requirements for your chosen field, usually involving credits in Biology and Chemistry. The application is typically done online via the college website, where you can also find a detailed breakdown of the tuition and laboratory fees.

Staying on top of these deadlines is crucial for a smooth transition into your next academic chapter. Each of these institutions has a unique set of requirements, so it is wise to have your digital documents like birth certificates, O'Level results, and passport photographs ready for upload. If you are aiming for a professional career in health or an advanced academic degree, these current openings represent some of the best opportunities available right now. Make sure to double-check the specific closing dates for each portal to avoid the last minute rush.

Middle East Schools Shift to Distance Learning Amid Regional Instability

 

Educational institutions across several Middle East nations, including Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, have officially transitioned to distance learning effective today, March 1, 2026. The decision, announced by respective Ministries of Education, comes as a precautionary and organizational measure in response to the rapid escalation of military tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran. This shift affects all levels of schooling, from kindergartens to major universities, as governments prioritize the safety of students and staff amidst airspace closures and regional uncertainty.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has also taken emergency action by postponing Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations that were scheduled for tomorrow, March 2, in multiple countries. Affected regions include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Iran. In a circular released today, the board stated that new dates for these critical exams will be announced only after a thorough security review. Students have been advised to stay in close contact with their schools as the board monitors whether further postponements will be necessary for later dates in the month.

In Nigeria, the educational discourse today is focused on a different kind of transformation, as academic leaders debate the system's readiness for the age of Artificial Intelligence. Despite the recent implementation of a 40% salary increase for university lecturers intended to stabilize the academic calendar, experts argue that the curriculum remains outdated. There is a growing call from the tech sector to pivot away from 20 year old programming methodologies and toward AI driven development and data engineering to ensure that graduates are actually prepared for the modern global workforce.

Globally, the intersection of conflict and education is becoming a central theme for the upcoming 2026 Global Education Monitoring Report, which is being finalized for its late March launch in Paris. UNESCO officials noted today that the current disruptions in the Middle East underscore the urgent need for Education in Emergencies frameworks. These frameworks aim to develop flexible curricula and digital infrastructure that can withstand political instability, ensuring that the right to education is not violated even when traditional classrooms are forced to close their doors.