There is no gainsaying the fact that Nigerian universities hold a substantial number of the youths across the country. Statistics reveal that as at 2021, not less than 2.1 million students were spread across the 264 campuses of the Federal, State and Private universities in the country. This number was for undergraduate students as not less than 234,000 were on post graduate studies in the universities.
What this implies is that Nigerian universities are holding close to 2.5 million young and vibrant talents in the country. It is also an indication that the ivory towers are also responsible for a substantial number of the 60% young, energetic talents of working age. Yet, unemployment rate among graduate keeps rising with many of these young people finishing first degrees with no jobs in sight.
For a student to have graduated with a first degree, they must have had not less than 16 years of continuous education from primary to tertiary level. So, the question to ask is whether the talent management framework for the universities is effective enough?
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As one of the youngest populations in the world, effective talent management is urgently calling for recalibration in the country as there is an urgent need to manage and nurture the abundant talents spread within the four walls of the Nigerian ivory towers. This is vital for sustained development and innovation. For Nigerian universities, an impactful talent management represents a critical facet that warrants keen attention and strategic nurturing.
Recognizing Untapped Potential
Nigerian universities are treasure troves of diverse talents, ranging from academic brilliance to artistic prowess, technological innovation, and entrepreneurial acumen. However, while these institutions serve as hubs for knowledge dissemination, there exists an untapped reservoir of potential talent awaiting identification, honing, and harnessing
The landscape of talent management in Nigerian universities is marked by both challenges and opportunities. One significant hurdle is the need for structured frameworks that actively identify and cultivate talents beyond traditional academic pursuits. This entails acknowledging various forms of talent, from scientific innovation to artistic expression and entrepreneurial initiatives. The structure of the current Students’ Affairs Divisions in Nigerian universities need to be fine-tuned for talent management. As it is, a lot of universities can not account for numerous talents that are on their campuses.
Moreover, the demand for cross-disciplinary collaboration presents an opportunity for universities to pivot toward fostering environments that encourage inter-departmental and cross-faculty exchanges. This collaboration not only nurtures talent but also cultivates a diverse skill set that aligns with real-world needs.
Holistic Approach to Talent Management
Talent management within Nigerian universities necessitates a holistic approach that encompasses several key pillars which include the following:
Identification and Encouragement
This requires creating systems that actively identify and encourage diverse talents, nurturing a culture where students and faculty are empowered to explore and showcase their skills. A reward system should also be put in place to encourage the talents. Healthy competitions should as well be instituted to facilitate innovative thinking and problem solving skills.
Flexible Curricula and Program Offerings
Embracing curriculum flexibility that allows students to explore interdisciplinary studies, affording them the freedom to discover and develop their strengths across various fields. The recently introduced CCMAS by the National Universities Commission is a good platform to change the current model for a more empowering
Mentorship and Guidance
Instituting robust mentorship programs that pair students with professionals in their fields, fostering a learning environment that extends beyond the confines of classrooms. Introducing the Professor of Practice model can make this a reality. A number of universities could tap into their alumni network to make this work.
Entrepreneurial Support
Providing resources and guidance for budding entrepreneurs, encouraging the development of innovative ideas and the transformation of these concepts into viable ventures. Building an innovation hub for ideation, development and acceleration would go a long way to assist universities mold the diverse talents on their campuses for productivity and prosperity.
Industry Collaboration
Forging partnerships with industries to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world, offering students practical exposure and experience can as well serve as a means of grooming the abundant talents in the universities.
Cultivating a Culture of Innovation
The heart of effective talent management in Nigerian universities lies in cultivating a culture of innovation. Encouraging risk-taking, problem-solving, and creative thinking empowers individuals to explore their potential to the fullest.
The Future of Talent Management in Nigerian Universities
Talent management in Nigerian universities should not solely be about recognizing academic achievements; it should be about recognizing and harnessing potential in all its forms. As these institutions evolve, fostering an environment that identifies, nurtures, and celebrates talent will be integral to academic excellence and the development of a generation equipped to meet real-world challenges.
Nigerian universities have an incredible opportunity to lead the charge in talent management, becoming catalysts for innovation, creativity, and holistic skill development. As they traverse this path, the collective effort toward a more robust talent management infrastructure will pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future for both students and the nation at large.