Kwara: Innovation academy advocates education reform in Africa
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
Prikkle Academy, a social enterprise based in the Afon area in Kwara State, has called on Nigerian and African policymakers to intensify efforts to reimagine the education system to preserve culture, address climate change, and promote regeneration.
This appeal was made during a briefing in Ilorin, following a retreat hosted by the academy in Afon.
The retreat, tagged “Afrikan Ecoversities Regional Gathering 2024,” took place from November 12 to 16 at Prikkle Academy and brought together educators, community leaders, and innovators for a transformative four-day program.
According to Adam Abdulraheem, the spokesman for Prikkle Academy, this was the second such gathering in Africa, following the inaugural event in Uganda in 2019.
The Ecoversities Alliance, which has hosted similar gatherings globally, aims to create transformative learning spaces and innovative education systems rooted in local knowledge and community-driven solutions.
The event attracted participants from across Africa, including representatives from Benin Republic, Kenya, Rwanda, and various Nigerian states such as Cross River, Lagos, Oyo, Kwara, and Kaduna.
Discussions focused on critical themes related to reimagining education for sustainable development.
Key facilitators at the event included Fasoranti Damilola, Founder of Prikkle Academy; Wangũi wa Kamonji, Ecoversities Regional Weaver; Jamiu Balogun, Program Coordinator; Ndzinga Dabutha, Community Champion; and the academy’s Communication Lead.
Fasoranti highlighted that the gathering provided valuable insights into local heritage. Participants visited Asa River for the Afon Fishing Festival and met with the Olooyeboo Olarele of Shao to learn about the Awon Festival, enriching their understanding of cultural preservation.
Renowned for establishing Nigeria’s first grassroots makerspace, this hub facilitated discussions on innovative education and cultural heritage preservation, emphasizing the importance of incorporating local traditions into educational systems.
