Gov Makinde Billed to Speak at International Education Conference in Ibadan

Governor Seyi Makinde is set to address local and global education leaders at the second International Education Conference, scheduled for February 21 at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan. 

The one-day event will feature distinguished speakers, including the Pro Vice-Chancellor of Global Engagement at INTI International University, Prof. Goh Khang Wen; Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Oyebode Adebowale; Managing Director of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu; and DAAD Programme Officer for Nigeria, Dr. Debo Akande, among other eminent scholars. 

According to the host and partnership director of the project, Tolu Eledan, this year’s summit, themed “Global Mastery, Local Impact: Empowering Minds through International Education,” aims to bring together educators, researchers, policymakers, and global education experts to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and address challenges and opportunities in the sector. 

Eledan highlighted that the conference will offer cross-border networking opportunities, foster the exchange of innovative ideas, and equip students with insights into international study pathways.

“Additionally, it will expose professionals to international collaboration opportunities, scholarships, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the quality of education in Nigeria.

She added that the 2nd International Education Conference 2025 is set to be a transformative event, shaping the future of education at local, national, and global levels.

“The summit is expected to drive meaningful discussions that will inform policies, strengthen institutional collaborations, and enhance student mobility across international academic institutions.”

Eledan further affirmed that Governor Makinde strongly believes education is the cornerstone of human development and a catalyst for positive change.

“This commitment has driven him, throughout his six years in office, to exceed UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) recommendation on education by allocating over 20 percent of the state’s budget to education and investing heavily in infrastructure and resources.

“Under his leadership, Oyo State has seen significant improvements in school enrollment rates, over 1.5 million out-of-school children have been absorbed into various public schools, teacher training programs, and the expansion of digital learning initiatives.

“As Oyo State continues to be a leading education hub and a top tourist destination—home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the Governor aims to leverage the conference to attract diaspora investors, strengthen global partnerships, and showcase the state’s achievements in the education sector.

“Furthermore, the event will serve as a platform to highlight the government’s ongoing efforts in modernising education, fostering research-driven policies, and equipping students with globally competitive skills.”