The Vice-Chancellor of Elizade University, Professor Philip Oguntunde, has cautioned parents against sending their children abroad for undergraduate studies at an early age, warning that the decision often comes with unintended consequences.
Oguntunde gave the advice during a town-and-gown engagement with secondary school administrators, where he highlighted the growing social and emotional impact of exposing young students to foreign environments too soon.
According to him, many parents, in their quest for better opportunities, overlook the long-term effects of early overseas education, which may include loss of cultural identity, weakened family ties, and a disconnect from core values.
He stressed the need for students to attain a level of maturity before studying abroad, urging parents to allow their children to complete their first degree in Nigeria.
“Allow your children and wards to acquire their first degree in Nigeria; otherwise, you may have unwittingly donated them to the devil,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that his stance is based on personal conviction, revealing that he declined two opportunities to send his own children abroad for early education, insisting they complete their undergraduate studies in Nigeria — a decision he said yielded positive outcomes.
He added that several parents who sent their children abroad at a young age are now grappling with challenges, as the children often adopt lifestyles and attitudes that create tension within their families.
Oguntunde also drew attention to the broader national impact, stating that early migration for education contributes to the loss of Nigeria’s human capital, while maintaining that local universities are capable of providing solid academic foundations.
In his remarks, the Registrar of the university, Mr Omololu Adegbenro, assured stakeholders that all programmes offered by the institution are fully accredited by the National Universities Commission.
He specifically highlighted the Nursing programme, noting that it equips graduates with multiple academic and professional certifications, enhancing their competitiveness both locally and internationally.
Also speaking, the Bursar, Mr Olusegun Ajeigbe, disclosed that the university operates a flexible fee structure alongside welfare support systems to assist students facing financial difficulties.
The University Librarian, Dr Ayooluwa Aregbesola, stated that the institution runs a modern, technology-driven library system that ensures seamless access to academic resources for both students and faculty.
Responding, participating secondary school administrators commended the initiative, describing the engagement as timely and impactful.
They noted that such interactions help bridge the gap between secondary and tertiary education, while guiding parents and students toward making informed academic decisions.
They also called for sustained collaboration, stressing that stronger ties between schools and universities would boost confidence in Nigeria’s higher education system.
