The President of Madonna University Alumni Association, Peter Nwachukwu, has said private universities play vital roles in driving education and fostering economic growth.

A statement said he spoke while addressing a gathering of stakeholders of the association.

The alumni leader advocated for the recognition and support of private institutions as catalysts for societal development.

Nwachukwu said that, “Private universities possess the agility and flexibility to respond swiftly to the ever-evolving needs of the labour market, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the modern world.

“Unlike their public counterparts, private institutions are unburdened by bureaucratic constraints, allowing them to introduce innovative programmes, cutting-edge research initiatives, and specialised training modules tailored to industry requirements.”

The alumni leader noted that private universities, driven by a strong commitment to excellence, often attracted top-tier faculty members and researchers who are renowned in their respective fields.

These distinguished academics, he noted, played a pivotal role in fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity, empowering students to reach their full potential.

According to him, the emphasis on quality education, coupled with personalised attention and mentorship, enabled students to cultivate critical thinking skills, creativity, and an entrepreneurial mindset, all of which were invaluable for driving economic growth.

Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between private universities and the business sector, the Madonna University Alumni leader said, “These institutions often foster strong industry collaborations and partnerships. Such collaborations allow for the exchange of knowledge, the commercialisation of research, and the creation of job opportunities, ultimately fueling economic progress.

“Private universities act as incubators for innovation, nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs, and providing a fertile ground for startups to flourish, leading to increased job creation and economic diversification.”

Nwachukwu emphasised the crucial role of private institutions in promoting social mobility and inclusivity.

With their ability to offer merit-based scholarships and financial aid programmes, he said, private universities provided access to quality education for talented students from diverse backgrounds, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their aspirations.

By nurturing a diverse student body, he noted, private institutions promoted cross-cultural understanding, tolerance, and the exchange of ideas, which were essential for fostering a vibrant and inclusive society.

He urged policymakers, businesses, and society at large to recognise the invaluable contributions of private universities in driving education and economic growth.

Through their commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity, he noted, these institutions served as the bedrock of progress and transformation, shaping the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.

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