By Bodunde Tenabe
Dr. Adebiyi David Shofoyeke’s tenure as Acting Director-General of the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) has been a transformative period marked by strategic partnerships, innovative programmes, and a commitment to excellence. His leadership has been a catalyst for change, steering the institution towards achieving its mandate.
Notably, the NIEPA boss has fostered collaborations with international development partners, such as UNICEF, and local agencies, resulting in significant advancements in educational planning and administration. The partnership with UNICEF to develop, review, and disseminate Education Sector plans for eight states in the north has improved educational outcomes in the region. Additionally, the high-level delegation advocacy visit from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Learn to Read Project Team has explored ways to provide technical support to NIEPA, further solidifying its commitment to instructional leadership.
Furthermore, Shofoyeke has demonstrated his innovative approach to leadership by introducing an expanded management meeting structure, which inclusively brings together former principal officers and very senior staff. This strategic move has harnessed the wealth of experience and expertise of these seasoned professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective problem-solving.
Under his leadership, the NIEPA Integrated Services, previously a financial burden, has been reconstituted. Spearheaded by Mrs Abimbola Fayanju a one time Acting Registrar of the Institute, the unit has been transformed into a revenue-generating venture, yielding impressive results. As a result, the NIS has witnessed increased and timely payment of salaries, improved staff morale, and enhanced productivity.
The Chief Executive has also prioritized staff welfare, recognizing that a motivated and skilled workforce is essential to achieving NIEPA’s mandate. He has initiated In-House training programmes, workshops, and conferences that have empowered staff to acquire new skills and knowledge, leading to enhanced expertise and commitment to NIEPA’s mission.
The introduction of the Staff of the Month award has recognized the diligence and commitment of workers, boosting morale and productivity. This award, a first in the Institute’s history, demonstrates Shofoyeke’s commitment to staff welfare and development.
Moreover, Dr. Shofoyeke has revitalized key conferences and forums, providing valuable platforms for stakeholders to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas. The reintroduction of the annual Conference of Directors of Planning, Research and Statistics (DPRS), the Conference of Directors of Quality Assurance, and the EMIS Conference has brought together experts and practitioners to discuss critical issues in educational planning, administration, and information management.
The inauguration of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) at NIEPA, attended by officials from the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), is a testament to the NIEPA boss’s unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. This move sets a commendable example for other institutions to follow, demonstrating that leaders can indeed prioritize integrity without fear.
As NIEPA celebrates one year of Dr David Adebiyi Shofoyeke’s transformative leadership, it is clear that his vision, expertise, and commitment have been instrumental in driving progress towards the Institute’s mandate. With his proven track record of strategic partnerships, innovative programming, and transformational leadership, NIEPA will continue to empower education sector planners and managers, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
Tenabe writes from NIEPA, Ondo
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