The College of Management and Social Sciences Education (COMSSED) at the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Noforija Epe Campus, held its 1st Annual National Conference on Monday, June 2, 2025, under the theme: “Education, Sustainable Growth, and Industrialization in a Digital Age.”
The landmark event drew academics, policy experts, and thought leaders from across the country to discuss the intersection of education, innovation, and national development.
Declaring the conference open, Vice Chancellor Professor Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye described LASUED as a beacon of sustainable growth and digital advancement. She emphasized the institution’s evolution from two Colleges of Education into a full-fledged university, now championing digital innovation and academic excellence.
Professor Lafiaji-Okuneye praised the contributions of former Vice Chancellors, professors, and distinguished guests in attendance. She noted that LASUED’s Senate is composed predominantly of PhD holders, reflecting the institution’s robust academic foundation. She also announced that over 20 students in the current 300-level class are on track to graduate with First Class honors.
Highlighting LASUED’s forward-looking strategy, the Vice Chancellor revealed the university has received official approval to implement a blended learning model—comprising 60% online and 40% in-person instruction—positioning it as a leader in educational innovation in Nigeria.
In his welcome address, Dr. Adebayo Adekunle Ademayowa, Acting Dean of COMSSED, described education as the “engine of national progress” and called for greater investment in digital competencies to drive socio-economic development.
The conference’s keynote was delivered by Professor Olanrewaju Adigun Fagbohun, SAN, NPOM, Professor of Environmental Law and former Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University. He emphasized that true digital literacy goes beyond mobile phone usage, encompassing critical skills needed to thrive in a competitive global economy. He warned that Nigeria risks marginalization unless it accelerates its digital transformation agenda.
Two lead papers further enriched the discourse. Professor Aregbeyen Omo explored how rapid technological change and demographic shifts demand urgent reforms in Nigeria’s educational system. He called for reimagined learning models to address 21st-century challenges.
Professor Olufemi Saibu, from the University of Lagos, argued that education must be digitally inclusive, accessible, and innovation-driven to meaningfully contribute to industrialization. He advocated for curricula that promote adaptive leadership, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
The conference concluded with a strong call to action for policymakers, educators, and institutions to embrace digital transformation as a cornerstone of national progress.
This inaugural conference sets the tone for future engagements, positioning LASUED as a leading voice in shaping Nigeria’s education and development policies in the digital age.
See pictures below 
