Tunji Alausa calls for diaspora partnership to drive Nigerian education reforms

Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has called for increased collaboration with the Nigerian diaspora to drive national education reforms. Speaking at the African Cultural Festival in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Alausa emphasized that diaspora professionals, academics, and researchers can support the country through mentorship, research collaboration, curriculum development, and technology transfer.

He highlighted the BRIDGE programme (Bridging Research, Innovation, Development and Global Expertise) as a primary vehicle for connecting Nigerian institutions with international expertise. Alausa noted that contributing to national development does not necessitate permanent relocation, as meaningful impact can be achieved through both physical and virtual engagement.

The Minister’s remarks coincided with him being named the 2026 “Man of the Year” by the African Cultural Festival and receiving the Key to the City of Harrisburg. He stated that the government’s transformation agenda encompasses the entire education value chain, including basic, secondary, technical, vocational, and tertiary education, alongside initiatives like the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and infrastructure investments.