By Alade Aromashodu

The British Council, an international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations, has indicated its readiness to host thousands of prospective Nigerian students at its 10th Education UK Exhibition in Lagos and Abuja schedule to take place from February 11-12 at the Iris and Jasmine Hallm, Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos; and Abuja from 14-15 in the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton Hotel.

The exhibition affords participants the opportunity to get first-hand information on available courses, career advice, application processes and procedures, studying and living in the UK, as well as tips on processing UK visas. It also enables prospective students to meet with representatives from various institutions in an interactive environment where issues like individual educational requirements and future career prospects can be discussed.

Speaking at a media parley organised by the Council in Lagos recently, Adetomi Soyinka, Project Manager of the Council reiterated the ‘role that quality education plays in empowering future generations.

Her words; “Quality education when put to good use is a gateway to a better living as the knowledge it provides not only impacts  the life of the individual; and their immediate family, but also the society, the nation, and by extension, the world at large.

“The British Council is committed to enabling better access to quality education and the UK has over the years proven to be the choice destination for many Nigerians seeking such. Hence, we have been showing our commitment by organising exhibitions that bring UK schools closer home on an annual basis,” she said

According to Soyinka, “Over 60 UK schools will be present, offering courses ranging across the sciences, arts, social sciences, and professional degrees, giving prospective students the opportunity to pursue their passion in the UK whatever that might be. Of particular popularity for Nigerians in years past have been courses such as Engineering & Technology, Business and Administrative Studies, Law, Computer Science, Physical and Biological Sciences, Architecture, Building & Planning among others.

Considering the importance of students making the right decision in course and location, Soyinka opined that parents and guardians are also welcome to attend so that they too can appreciate the value in a UK education.

She went on: “The choice of the destination for further study is a collective decision. So we call on parents and guardians to be a part of the exhibition. Studying in the UK goes beyond learning within the four walls of the institutions; it also entails imbibing a culture, learning procedures that can be used to better our society. A UK education is a guarantee of value for money by enhancing career prospects.”

This year’s exhibition creates additional segment where prospects will benefit from special professional development sessions where they are guided through career choice, for which certificates will be issued.