Dr. Samuel Onyishi, Founder and Chancellor of Maduka University, has called on Nigerian universities to prioritize industry collaboration and integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and entrepreneurship into their curricula to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Speaking as a guest lecturer at the second Academic Lecture of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Onyishi stressed that AI is already reshaping the job market and displacing traditional roles. He urged universities to adapt their training methods to prepare students for the demands of an AI-driven world.
In his lecture, “Entrepreneurship for Human Development and Economic Progression: A Call on Nigerian Universities,” Onyishi criticized the country’s overdependence on imported medical supplies despite having more than 48 universities and over 400 nursing schools offering medical education. He said this trend highlights the urgent need to develop Nigeria’s medical entrepreneurship sector.
He advocated for targeted entrepreneurial education, including components such as financial literacy, ICT skills, legal awareness, leadership training, vocational skills, and cooperative development. Onyishi recommended the establishment of incubation centers, school farms, and agricultural training to promote self-sufficiency and food security.
Highlighting Nigeria’s academic potential with over 270 universities Onyishi challenged universities to shed the “ivory tower” mindset and focus on practical, industry-driven education that fosters innovation and economic growth.
“Our institutions must become catalysts for national development. We need to reimagine and reconstruct the university of the future — and the path forward is entrepreneurial,” he stated.
