By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

Olori Ivie Atuwatse III, wife of the Olu of Warri, has called for the modernisation of Nigeria’s educational curricula, stressing the urgent need to improve the quality and outcomes of learning in the country.

Speaking at a fundraising event for the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) Academy’s new building project in Abuja, Olori Atuwatse III emphasized that both infrastructure development and curriculum reform must be prioritized to ensure better learning environments for Nigerian children.

She commended CTL Academy’s vision, particularly its completed first phase of development, which includes a FIFA-standard football pitch, a 400-metre athletics track, a 1,000-seat pavilion, locker rooms, and a wellness centre.

“School infrastructure is not just about having buildings. It’s about creating an environment that enhances learning outcomes,” she said. “I’ve seen this firsthand through initiatives in Warri. For instance, our STEM lab, built right in the middle of a slum, was designed to be state-of-the-art—with top-quality laptops and learning tools—to create an environment where children feel valued and inspired.”

Olori Atuwatse III highlighted how conducive environments directly influence a child’s ability to focus and learn effectively, emphasizing that classrooms must be education-friendly spaces.

“It’s important to recognize that children are human beings too. Just like adults, when they’re placed in uncomfortable environments, their ability to learn is diminished. We must focus on creating welcoming classrooms and also reform how and what children are taught,” she added.

Citing Finland’s play-based learning model as a global best practice, she advocated for more interactive and engaging teaching methods in Nigeria.

“Too often, learning here is rigid and uninspiring, which limits children’s ability to enjoy and absorb knowledge. But when learning is infused with play, as seen in some models like CTL Academy’s, students engage more, retain more, and perform better.”

She called on government, educators, parents, and other stakeholders to collaborate in reshaping the education system to deliver better outcomes.

“Improving our education system requires more than just policy—it needs the commitment of everyone, including parents and teachers, to rethink both infrastructure and curriculum. That’s how we ensure our children thrive,” she concluded.