Ekiti State University and Babcock University have been selected for a British Council-funded project aimed at transforming university curricula in Nigeria to promote entrepreneurship, circular economy, and peacebuilding.

The project is being led by Dr Olushola Kolawole, a lecturer in Business Data Analytics, Circular Economy and Entrepreneurship at the University of Bradford, United Kingdom.

As part of efforts to implement the initiative, scholars, curriculum experts, and education stakeholders recently gathered in Lagos for a workshop themed, ‘Curriculum Development on Entrepreneurship, Circular Economy and Peace Building in Nigeria’.

Participants at the workshop brainstormed on how to develop a robust academic framework that incorporates contemporary concepts such as sustainability and peacebuilding into Nigerian higher education.

Speaking at the event, Kolawole underscored the need to rework Africa’s educational system to align with global trends in enterprise, peace, and sustainable development.

“We must equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools to build resilient economies, promote peace, and champion sustainable development. This project is a significant step toward that future,” he said.

As part of the initiative, both Ekiti State University and Babcock University are expected to receive relevant textbooks and academic resources to support teaching and research in the newly developed thematic areas.

Kolawole noted that the project would have a long-term impact by promoting interdisciplinary learning, encouraging sustainable business practices, and fostering a culture of peace among young Nigerians.

“It also aligns with broader efforts to internationalise Nigeria’s higher education system through collaborative knowledge exchange,” he added.

Dr Kolawole is working with a team of academics, including Prof Kenneth Omeje of the International University, UK; Dr Joseph Danquah of the University of Bradford; Prof Taiwo Owoeye of Ekiti State University; and Prof Adesoga Adefulu of Babcock University.

A textbook co-edited by Kolawole and Omeje, featuring contributions from scholars across Africa, is also in the pipeline. The publication will include local case studies and context-specific applications of global theories. (PUNCH)