ABUAD: Empowering Youths, Co-Creating Future of Education

On this auspicious occasion of the 2026 International Day of Education, we are once again reminded that education remains the most enduring force for human advancement, societal stability, and sustainable development.

January 24 each year offers us the opportunity to reflect deeply on how education enriches life, strengthens values, and unlocks human potential. It is a day to celebrate educators who regard teaching not just as a profession, but as a noble calling, and to acknowledge students whose curiosity, creativity, and resilience continually redefine the boundaries of excellence.

This year’s theme, “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education,” draws global attention to the indispensable role young people play not merely as recipients of knowledge, but as active partners in shaping the future of learning.

At Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), we take immense pride as vanguards of quality education that empowers young people to think critically, act ethically, and lead responsibly. Our educational philosophy recognises that today’s youth are not only leaders of tomorrow, but co-creators of today’s solutions. Through innovation, research, community engagement, and participatory learning, our students are encouraged to take ownership of their educational journey and contribute meaningfully to societal progress.

Guided by the timeless wisdom of our Founder and Chancellor, Aare Afe Emmanuel Babalola, SAN, who has consistently affirmed that education is the most effective weapon against ignorance, disease, and poverty, ABUAD continues to invest in an academic environment where youth voices are heard, talents are nurtured, and ideas are transformed into impact.

As we commemorate this important day, we must also remain mindful of the millions of young people across the world who still face barriers to education. Their exclusion is a loss not only to them, but to humanity at large. It is therefore our shared responsibility as educators, policymakers, institutions, and students to champion inclusive, equitable, and participatory education systems that leave no one behind.

The 2026 theme challenges us to reimagine education as a collaborative enterprise, where youth are empowered to co-design curricula, drive innovation, and influence educational policies that respond to real-world needs.

As we celebrate the progress made so far, let us be more intentional in harnessing the energy, creativity, and vision of the youth to co-create an educational future that upholds dignity, inspires freedom, and guarantees prosperity for generations to come.

Professor Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde, FCArb, FCAI
Vice-Chancellor,
Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)