The ongoing energy crisis in Nigeria continues to disrupt various sectors, with education being one of the most affected. At the 2024 Annual Summit of the Education Writers’ Association of Nigeria (EWAN), experts and key stakeholders in the education and energy sectors gathered to discuss strategies for ensuring affordable energy for Nigerian education institutions.
Held at the University of Lagos’ Tolu Odugbemi Hall on October 23, 2024, the summit focused on “High Tariffs: Resolving the Electricity Crisis in Nigeria’s Education Institutions.” It brought together policymakers, energy providers, and academic leaders to tackle the pressing challenges posed by high electricity tariffs and unreliable power supply in schools.
Disruptions and Challenges in the Education Sector
The panel discussions highlighted how the current electricity crisis is severely affecting both public and private educational institutions. Federal universities, in particular, are struggling to operate efficiently due to erratic power supply and soaring electricity costs. These institutions are already grappling with inadequate funding, and the rising energy expenses are further straining their budgets.
According to experts at the summit, the high tariffs and unpredictable power supply undermine the quality of education, making it difficult for students and educators to thrive. The recent removal of the 67% government subsidy on electricity supply has worsened the situation, leading many universities into debt as they scramble to meet their electricity bills.
Impact on Education Quality
The panelists pointed out that the increasing electricity costs, combined with inflation and the devaluation of the naira, are contributing to a decline in the standard of teaching and learning. Educational institutions are unable to invest in alternative energy solutions, such as solar power, because of the high initial setup costs and maintenance expenses. The lack of reliable and affordable electricity is undermining the potential of Nigeria’s young population and hindering the country’s educational progress.
Collaborative Solutions for Energy Access in Education
The summit concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between universities, government agencies, and private sector players to address the energy crisis in the education sector. Recommendations included:
- Investment in Alternative Energy: Educational institutions should explore renewable energy options, particularly solar, to reduce dependence on the national grid and ensure a more stable and affordable electricity supply.
- Diversification of Nigeria’s Energy Mix: The government must accelerate efforts to diversify the country’s energy sources, moving away from heavy reliance on oil and gas. Greater investment in renewable energy is essential for long-term sustainability.
- Improvement in Energy Efficiency: Reducing energy losses, which currently account for 40-60% of generated power, should be a priority. This can be achieved through better infrastructure and management practices to ensure more efficient energy use in schools.
- Specialized Tariffs for Educational Institutions: The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) should introduce specialized tariffs for educational institutions to make energy more affordable for schools and universities.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Strong partnerships between educational institutions and energy providers are crucial for developing cost-effective solutions tailored to the specific needs of schools.
- Integration of ICT and Academia-Industry Collaboration: Universities should establish ICT training centers to prepare graduates for the global workforce. Additionally, faculty members could take sabbaticals in the private sector, fostering academia-industry collaboration.
EWAN Chairman’s Closing Remarks
In his closing remarks, EWAN Chairman Mr. Mojeed Alabi emphasized the urgent need for affordable, stable energy to support quality education in Nigeria. He stated, “You can never have quality and affordable education without stable electricity.”
Moving Forward
As Nigeria continues to face its energy challenges, the education sector must not be overlooked. By fostering collaboration, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring better energy management, the country can overcome the current crisis and ensure that education remains a beacon of hope for future generations.
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