Professor Kay Onyechi, a Professor of Guidance and Counseling at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has pledged to intensify efforts toward educational reform following her induction into the Nigerian Academy of Education (NAE).

Onyechi, a former Commissioner for Education in Anambra State, described the recognition as a motivation to deepen her contributions to national development through research, mentorship, and advocacy for inclusive learning.

“This honour inspires me to do more. I’m already considering setting up a foundation to support indigent students with school materials, accommodation, and access to quality education,” she said.

The renowned educationist, who served under the administration of former Governor Peter Obi, said her long-standing passion for education stems from its role in capacity building and social transformation. She noted that her years in academia and public service have strengthened her resolve to promote equitable learning opportunities for all Nigerian children.

According to her, the recognition by the NAE is not merely a personal milestone but a call to greater service in advancing educational reforms and mentoring the next generation of scholars.

Meanwhile, President of the Academy, Professor Kabiru Isyaku, used the occasion of the NAE’s 40th Anniversary celebration and induction of 38 new academics to call for the declaration of a state of emergency in the nation’s education sector.

Isyaku stressed the need for an urgent review of the National Policy on Education, last revised over a decade ago. He said the review should address critical issues such as the constitutional status of education, funding, curriculum relevance, evaluation, and certification.

He decried the high number of unqualified personnel teaching in schools while many trained teachers remain unemployed, adding that the situation undermines professionalism and weakens quality.

“It is discouraging to see schools filled with non-teachers while qualified educators are jobless. Quality assurance and supervisory agencies must enforce standards to ensure only qualified personnel are employed,” he said.

Isyaku also urged the Federal Government to constitute governing boards and councils for parastatals under the Federal Ministry of Education, noting that their absence hinders effective policy implementation and accountability.

The Nigerian Academy of Education, established four decades ago, is the apex professional body for distinguished educationists in the country. It comprises eminent scholars and administrators, including former ministers, vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, and directors of education.

The Academy’s mission is to advise on policies that enhance educational quality at all levels, conduct research on emerging issues, and promote excellence in teaching, learning, and administration.