Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has pledged to work with Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and other education stakeholders to establish a legislative framework for transnational education. This initiative aims to drive sustainable growth within Nigeria’s education sector.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Kalu outlined his vision: “The focus is on establishing the International Education Commission to promote educational excellence and international collaboration.” He emphasized that “Education could be an export item for Nigeria similar to other destinations Nigerians have been travelling to study.”
According to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s first-quarter 2024 statistical bulletin, Nigerians spent $38.17 million on foreign education between January and March 2024. This expenditure represents a significant drop of 83 percent from the $218.87 million spent during the same period last year. However, compared to the previous quarter, there was a 54 percent increase from $24.82 million spent in Q4 2023.
The statement further highlighted that Osobase Ehizua, Senior Legislative Aide to the Deputy Speaker, is spearheading efforts to develop a comprehensive legislative roadmap for transnational education. The objective is to support the education sector’s growth, enhance bilateral relations, and position education as an exportable service to boost Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.
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Ehizua explained, “The upcoming consultation process will pave the way for the establishment of an International Education Commission in Nigeria. This initiative aims to transform regional education, develop market strategies, and ensure the safety of Nigerians studying abroad.”
The Deputy Speaker’s Office has called on government agencies, regulatory bodies, and both local and international education stakeholders to collaborate on crafting a new social contract for transnational education, fostering peace, justice, and sustainability.
The office noted that the benefits of transnational education are extensive, including an enriched educational landscape through co-funded scholarships, student support services, and the presence of foreign universities. It emphasized, “This initiative not only enriches the local educational ecosystem but also aligns with global trends where countries like the United States and the United Kingdom benefit significantly from education exports yearly.”
As Nigeria experiences a growing interest in higher education, partnerships with key players such as China, the United Kingdom, Canada, the US, and Australia are seen as crucial for meeting the increasing demand for quality education.
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