Stakeholders in the education sector, university administrators, and scholars from Nigeria and the United Kingdom converged on Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo, for the maiden edition of the 2026 World Educators Conference organised by the Society for Educators International.
The conference, themed “Emerging Perspectives and Practices,” was organised to address challenges confronting the education sector and explore innovative solutions for improving educational systems, particularly in Africa and Nigeria.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of AFUED, Bayode Isaiah Popoola, described the event as a landmark achievement for the institution, noting that it was the first conference of its kind hosted in Nigeria.
He commended the organisers for their commitment to finding lasting solutions to the declining standard of education in the country, stressing that education remains one of the most critical tools for national development.
Professor Popoola lamented the growing number of out-of-school children globally, citing available statistics indicating that over 250 million children are currently out of school worldwide.
He further emphasized the need for Nigeria to invest in experienced and well-trained teachers capable of shaping future generations and repositioning the nation’s education sector.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor of AFUED, Ireti Alao, said the conference would provide a platform for discussing modern teaching approaches and technological innovations capable of transforming the educational system.
According to her, teaching has evolved beyond the traditional classroom system, making the integration of modern technology into learning processes imperative.
On behalf of the President of the Society for Educators International UK, Adejoke Ogunkoya Akinsemolu, the Secretary of the Society, Adedayo Olofinnika, said bringing the conference to Nigeria was timely, considering the urgent need for reforms and constructive engagement in the sector.
He noted that the conference was designed to redefine the future of learning and prepare future leaders through innovative educational practices.
As part of the event, notable educationists and administrators will be honoured for their contributions to educational development. Those slated for recognition include Professor Bayode Popoola, former Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University and political scientist Femi Mimiko, Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, Olayinka Adeyeye, Professor Faruk Haruna of the Federal University, Kontagora, and Professor Oyenike Oyinloye.
The awards ceremony is scheduled to hold at the Olusegun Obasanjo Auditorium of AFUED, Ondo.
