The National President of the University of Ilorin Alumni Association, Prof. Abdulrasaq Kilani, has called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to investigate the rising number of first-class graduates being produced by private universities.

He expressed concerns over the quality control standards in these institutions.Prof. Kilani, a Professor of Islamic Studies, made this statement on Sunday during an interview in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The discussion took place at the Ogun State UNILORIN Alumni Annual General Meeting and the Taorid Odedele Memorial Lecture, themed “Strengthening Alumni Associations for Societal Development and Growth.”

Kilani also addressed the growing perception among youths that education is a scam, cautioning that such beliefs could have long-term negative consequences.

Responding to the notion that education is a scam, Kilani stated, “How can anyone say that education is a scam? If you want to continue wallowing in poverty and ignorance, then you can say that. But education liberates. It offers the best opportunities and uplifts individuals in society.”

He emphasized that education remains a critical tool for personal and societal development, urging youths to value learning as a means of breaking the cycle of poverty.

Prof. Kilani noted the increase in the number of first-class graduates compared to previous decades, attributing this to technological advancements and better foundational education.

He explained that students today have access to more learning resources through the internet and sophisticated teaching methodologies, especially in private schools.

“In the past, one library book might serve 200 students, and many times you wouldn’t get access to it,” he said.

“Now, with a tap on a device, students can access vast amounts of information, which has contributed to improved academic performance.”

However, he also expressed skepticism over the large numbers of first-class graduates emerging from private universities.

“Some private universities are businesses, and producing more first-class graduates is a way to attract prospective students,” he said.

“In contrast, public universities don’t produce such numbers. This calls for NUC’s intervention to ensure only deserving students are awarded first-class honors.”

Kilani cited the University of Ilorin’s experience in the 1980s, where very few students graduated with first-class honors despite their brilliance.

The issue isn’t that private university students aren’t capable, but quality assurance is necessary to ensure merit,” he added.

Kilani urged alumni worldwide to actively support the development of their alma maters by leveraging their networks.

He highlighted the importance of giving back to institutions that shaped their careers.

Similarly, Ayobamigbe Faloye, Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the association, encouraged alumni to focus on nation-building.

“We must move beyond networking for personal interests and work collectively for societal progress,” he said.

“The responsibility of turning around the fortunes of our communities and nation rests with us.”

Both speakers emphasized the role of alumni associations in driving societal growth and fostering educational development.