Otefe-Oghara: Prof. Iwu Advocates For Tech-Driven Education At Delta Polytechnic Convocation

By Nelson Agbajor

Prof. Chux Gervase Iwu of the University of the Western Cape, South Africa, has emphasized the critical role of polytechnic and technical education in advancing technology within the academic sector, asserting that such institutions have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s educational development.

Prof. Iwu, a distinguished Nigerian educationist and affiliate of one of Africa’s prominent educational trust funds, delivered this message as the guest lecturer at the 2nd Combined Convocation Ceremony of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara.

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Speaking on the theme: “Taking Nigeria to the World and the World to Nigeria through Technology and Innovation Education in the Era of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence”, Prof. Iwu highlighted the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping modern societies.

He noted, however, that while tools such as smartphones and computers are useful, it is ultimately human capacity, not machines, that determines the future of a nation.

“The future of Nigeria does not lie in smart tools,” he remarked. “It lies in people , in you and me. Humanity is the true agent of change.”

Nevertheless, he commended the graduates and their lecturers for their dedication and resilience, he acknowledged the hard work of the Rector , Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, faculty members in shaping the next generation of innovators.

“May God Almighty reward your intellectual efforts and commitment to service,” he prayed.

Addressing the state of education in Nigeria, Prof. Iwu urged policymakers to embrace modern technology and digital intelligence. “We must update our education system and accept the reality of a fast-growing digital world,” he stated.

He however called for early integration of intelligent education systems and stressed the need for stronger collaboration between educational institutions, industries, and public-private partnerships to drive national development.

Prof. Iwu also appealed to Nigerians in the diaspora to return home and apply their expertise toward technological advancement and economic growth. “Nigeria needs you now, not tomorrow. We are the architects of our technological future,” he declared.

Speaking comparatively, he concluded his lecture with an African proverb “Until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter,” underscoring the importance of self-representation and local innovation.

The convocation ceremony was graced by a host of dignitaries from various sectors. Notable attendees included Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Rector of Delta State Polytechnic Otefe-Oghara; Dr. Samuel Ogbogu, Deputy Rector; Prof. Stella Chiemeke, Vice Chancellor of the University of Delta, Agbor; and Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Commissioner for Higher Education in Delta State.

Also in attendance were Hon. Charles Emetulu, Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Delta State House of Assembly; Chief Andrew Orugbo, Chairman, Governing Council; Rt. Hon. Ben Igbakpa; representatives from the Ovie of Oghara’s palace; the new Provost of the College of Education, Mosogar; deans of faculties, heads of departments, staff, students, and the dynamic management team of the Polytechnic, including the dedicated Dr. Idama Supreme.

It is worthy of note that the convocation lecture celebrated not only academic excellence but also the urgent call for innovation and transformation in Nigeria’s education sector.