Benue State University, Makurdi

The Department of Educational Foundations at the Faculty of Education, Benue State University (BSU), held its inaugural International Conference from March 25 to March 27, 2025. Themed "Educational Service Delivery in 21st Century Nigeria," the conference convened at the Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium.

During the opening ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Professor Tor Joe Iorapuu emphasized that education is a fundamental pillar of national development. In today's rapidly evolving world, the need for innovative, inclusive, and technology-driven educational service delivery has never been more urgent. He called on scholars, policymakers, and stakeholders in the education sector to critically assess current practices and offer practical solutions to reposition education as a catalyst for sustainable development.

Professor Iorapuu praised the Faculty of Education for organizing the conference, which serves as an excellent platform for intellectual discourse and collaboration. He urged participants to engage meaningfully and generate ideas that will shape the future of education in Nigeria and beyond.

In his welcome address, Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Benjamin Imoko, stated that the conference marks a significant milestone for the faculty, aligning with their commitment to academic excellence and contributing to national and global conversations on educational transformation. He noted that the conference theme reflects the realities of our time and emphasized the importance of exploring policies, methodologies, and technological advancements to enhance learning outcomes and bridge existing gaps in educational service delivery.

Professor Gabriel Terzungwe Akume, Head of the Department of Educational Foundations, remarked that education is the foundation of national progress and that robust educational service delivery is central to this foundation. He stressed the necessity to interrogate and refine educational approaches in an era marked by rapid technological advancement, globalization, and emerging socio-economic challenges. He asserted that the conference provides a vital platform for critical engagement, research dissemination, and collaboration among education scholars and practitioners.

Professor Peter Terfa Ortese, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, described the conference as a privilege, bringing together a distinguished assembly of academics and professionals committed to advancing education in Nigeria and beyond. He stated, "The conference seeks to address critical issues affecting learning, teaching, and policy implementation in our education system. Through robust discussions, research presentations, and networking opportunities, we aim to foster innovative strategies that will transform education and enhance its effectiveness and inclusivity." He encouraged all participants to engage actively, exchange ideas, and explore collaborations that will lead to positive educational reforms.