Education experts have called for Nigeria’s education system to adopt more student-centred learning approaches that encourage active participation and creativity among learners.
The call was made during a dialogue organised by the non-governmental organisation, Build A Child Initiative, in collaboration with Bramble Network, to commemorate the 2026 International Day of Education.
A statement released by the group on Saturday said the event, held at the Bosso Campus of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, brought together about 50 participants, including students, lecturers, school administrators, education professionals and youth advocates.
The dialogue focused on the United Nations theme for the year, “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education.”
Speaking during the event, a lecturer at Kaduna State Polytechnic, Paul Ishaya, stressed the need for Nigeria’s education system to move beyond the traditional teacher-centred model.
According to him, learning environments should be structured in ways that allow students to contribute ideas, collaborate with teachers and participate in shaping the learning process.
“Education should no longer be a one-directional process where teachers simply pass knowledge to students. Young people must be involved in the learning process so that education becomes more engaging, practical and relevant to their realities,” he said.
Also speaking, an education professional, Becky Nwokike, said empowering students to participate in decision-making within schools could significantly improve learning outcomes.
“When students are given opportunities to participate in curriculum discussions, project-based learning and peer collaboration, they become more confident and motivated to learn. Education should empower learners to think critically and solve problems,” she said.
The panellists recommended strategies such as involving students in lesson planning and curriculum development, increasing youth representation in school decision-making structures and expanding project-based and peer-learning approaches.
The Executive Director of Build A Child Initiative, Janet Isesele, highlighted the importance of technology in connecting students with global learning communities.
She noted that digital platforms could expose young people to new ideas and opportunities beyond their immediate environment.
“Technology has made it possible for students to interact with peers and educators across the world. This kind of exposure helps them develop confidence, broaden their perspectives and acquire skills needed in today’s global society,” she said.
Isesele added that such opportunities were particularly important for empowering young people, especially girls, to realise their full potential.
Beyond advocacy, the organisation also highlighted its ongoing interventions aimed at supporting underserved children through targeted educational programmes.
As part of this effort, Build A Child Initiative recently awarded nine fully funded scholarships to pupils in Niger State under the BACI Scholars Programme, which provides tuition support and essential learning materials through the completion of primary education.
The programme, according to the organisation, is designed to improve school retention, reduce dropout rates and ensure that underserved children, particularly girls, complete their foundational education.
In Kogi State, the organisation also distributed 15 school bags to children from underserved communities to support school readiness and promote dignity and inclusion in the learning process.
The group said it remains committed to improving access, equity and meaningful participation in Nigeria’s education sector through grassroots advocacy, youth-centred dialogue and educational support programmes.
