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UK Supports Overhaul of Nigerian University Curricula with Focus on Sustainability, Entrepreneurship, and Peace

Nigeria’s higher education system is on the cusp of a major transformation—thanks to a British Council-backed initiative designed to modernize university curricula with a focus on entrepreneurship, circular economy, and peacebuilding.

At the heart of this reform are Ekiti State University and Babcock University, both selected as pilot institutions for the groundbreaking project, which aims to reshape how Nigerian students are prepared for a rapidly changing world.

Leading the charge is Dr. Olushola Kolawole, a Nigerian academic based at the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom. With expertise in Business Data Analytics, Circular Economy, and Entrepreneurship, Kolawole is spearheading a cross-continental collaboration to align Nigeria’s university education with global best practices.

To kick off the initiative, a high-level workshop was recently held in Lagos, drawing scholars, curriculum developers, and education policymakers under the theme: “Curriculum Development on Entrepreneurship, Circular Economy and Peace Building in Nigeria.”

Participants deliberated on creating a more forward-thinking academic framework—one that blends sustainability, innovation, and social harmony into everyday teaching and research.

“We must prepare the next generation to thrive in complex global environments—to build resilient economies, sustain peace, and drive development,” said Dr. Kolawole during his keynote address. “This initiative is a bold step in that direction.”

As part of the curriculum transformation, both universities will receive new textbooks and scholarly materials tailored to these thematic areas, ensuring faculty and students have access to contemporary knowledge and tools.

Kolawole emphasized that the project is about more than just content; it’s about cultivating a mindset shift. “By encouraging interdisciplinary learning and sustainability-driven business practices, we are helping to nurture a culture of peace and innovation among Nigerian youths.”

The initiative is also a stride toward the broader goal of internationalizing Nigeria’s university system, paving the way for greater global collaboration and exchange of ideas.

Joining Kolawole on the project are a distinguished team of academics:

Prof. Kenneth Omeje, International University, UK

Dr. Joseph Danquah, University of Bradford

Prof. Taiwo Owoeye, Ekiti State University

Prof. Adesoga Adefulu, Babcock University

In addition, Kolawole and Omeje are co-editing a forthcoming textbook that brings together African scholars to contextualize global theories with locally relevant case studies—another vital tool for empowering Nigerian academics and students alike.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna