Goodmus Learning Centre has announced June 27, 2026, as the date for the next Global Competency Assessment (GCA) examination in Nigeria, a UK-based certification programme that promises access to international scholarships, employment opportunities and global mobility pathways for successful candidates.

The assessment, which recently made its debut in Lagos, is designed to measure practical skills and workplace competence across a range of sectors including business, technology, education, security and entrepreneurship.

According to the centre, candidates who achieve exceptional scores could qualify for overseas scholarships and gain recognition in dozens of countries where the certification is accepted.

Why It Matters

As employers around the world increasingly prioritise practical skills over traditional academic qualifications alone, competency-based certifications are gaining traction as alternative pathways to employment and career advancement.

For many young Nigerians facing a highly competitive job market, globally recognised skills certification could provide an additional advantage when seeking opportunities abroad or within multinational organisations.

The launch also comes at a time when governments, employers and educational institutions are placing greater emphasis on workforce readiness, digital skills and measurable competence.

Scholarship Opportunities Linked to Performance

Speaking on the programme, Managing Director of Goodmus Learning Centre, Dr. Adekunle Badmus, said candidates who score above 90 per cent in the examination will automatically qualify for scholarship opportunities for short courses in any of the 32 countries that recognise the certification.

These countries include destinations such as the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States.

Badmus added that candidates who score above 60 per cent may also become eligible for partial scholarships and other international education and travel opportunities.

“The GCA is about measuring practical skills, applied knowledge and performance. It is not just another certificate; it is validation of global competence,” he said.

Monthly Assessments Planned

The education centre said it has completed its first round of assessments in Lagos and intends to hold examinations every month.

According to Badmus, the move is aimed at ensuring regular access to globally recognised competence certification for Nigerians seeking career development opportunities.

He explained that the assessment is designed to evaluate individuals strictly within their professional areas of expertise.

“The certification is structured to assess individuals strictly within their areas of expertise, ensuring that successful candidates are evaluated on demonstrable competence rather than academic credentials alone,” he said.

International Recognition and Employment Prospects

Goodmus said the inaugural examination was supervised by education experts from the United Kingdom, a development it believes strengthens the programme’s international credibility and alignment with global standards.

Badmus said successful candidates could gain access to employment opportunities across recognised jurisdictions while also benefiting from pathways connected to study and residence opportunities in countries including Germany, the Netherlands and Portugal.

The organisation argues that the certification framework follows competency-based assessment models increasingly used in international labour markets.

Expert Perspective

Education and workforce development experts have long argued that practical skills assessments can complement traditional qualifications by providing employers with additional evidence of a candidate’s abilities.

Human capital analysts note that while academic degrees remain important, employers are increasingly looking for proof of workplace competence, problem-solving abilities and industry-specific skills.

Experts also caution that candidates should carefully verify recognition requirements in specific countries and industries, as immigration, licensing and employment regulations can vary significantly across jurisdictions.

Impact on Nigeria’s Workforce

The certification programme could contribute to broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s human capital development and improve workforce competitiveness.

According to Goodmus, organisations can also use the assessment framework to identify skills gaps, improve recruitment processes and benchmark employee performance against international standards.

Badmus believes the programme could help bridge the gap between education and employability.

“Competence is universal. What GCA does is ensure that your competence is recognised anywhere in the world,” he said.

Partnerships and Expansion Plans

The learning centre says it is open to partnerships with educational institutions, businesses and organisations interested in expanding international recognition opportunities for Nigerians.

The company hopes such collaborations will help more professionals gain access to global educat

What Happens Next?

The next Global Competency Assessment examination will take place on June 27, 2026, with subsequent assessments scheduled to be conducted monthly.

Prospective candidates are expected to register through Goodmus Learning Centre and select assessment categories aligned with their professional backgrounds.

Union Bank of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting teachers and improving education across the country as the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition (MTOTY) launched its 12th edition in Lagos.

The bank, now in its third consecutive year as a partner of the initiative, joined organisers Nigerian Breweries Plc and the Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, alongside education stakeholders, to discuss how stronger support systems can improve learning outcomes for teachers and students.

The annual competition has become one of Nigeria’s most recognised platforms for celebrating educators, with more than 300 teachers honoured since its inception.

Why It Matters

Education experts have long argued that investing in teachers is one of the most effective ways to improve learning outcomes and strengthen national development.

According to stakeholders at the event, recognition programmes such as the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition help raise the profile of teachers while encouraging excellence in classrooms across the country.

The initiative also comes at a time when Nigeria faces ongoing challenges around teacher welfare, educational infrastructure, and access to quality learning opportunities.

Education Is a Strategic Investment, Says Union Bank

Speaking during the event, Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, said education remains central to the bank’s long-term vision.

“At Union Bank, we believe education is not a social obligation. It is a strategic investment,” she said.

“A nation that does not invest in its teachers and its learners is borrowing from its own future, and we are in the business of building futures, not mortgaging them.”

Aluko highlighted the bank’s Edu360 programme, a flagship initiative under its UnionCares platform, which aims to support the education ecosystem from early learning through workforce development.

The programme focuses on improving access to education for underserved communities, strengthening teacher development, expanding digital literacy, promoting STEM education, and preparing young people for employment and entrepreneurship.

Call for Greater Private Sector Involvement

Aluko also challenged financial institutions and corporate organisations to take a broader approach to education support.

“Financial institutions need to stop thinking of ourselves as donors and start thinking of ourselves as ecosystem builders,” she said.

“We can embed financial literacy into school curricula, design products that help parents save for their children’s education, and convene policymakers, educators and the private sector around shared goals.”

“Above all, we can show up consistently, not only when it suits our brand calendars.”

Her remarks reflect growing calls for stronger collaboration between businesses, governments, and education stakeholders to address systemic challenges in Nigeria’s education sector.

Celebrating Teachers Across Nigeria

The Union Bank executive pointed to the competition’s ₦100 million grand prize as evidence of the scale of commitment being made to recognise educators.

She described the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition as a model of consistency and impact, noting that it aligns closely with Union Bank’s educational goals through Edu360.

In her closing remarks, Aluko delivered a message aimed directly at teachers nationwide.

“To every teacher in this country, what you do is not small,” she said.

“Your story deserves to be told, and Nigeria needs to know your name.”

Industry Perspective

Education advocates say teacher recognition programmes can play an important role in motivating educators and drawing public attention to the profession.

Many experts, however, stress that awards must be complemented by sustained investments in teacher training, improved welfare packages, classroom resources, and digital learning infrastructure.

Analysts also note that partnerships between private sector organisations and educational institutions are becoming increasingly important as governments seek innovative ways to improve learning outcomes.

What Happens Next?

Applications and nominations for the 12th edition of the Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition are expected to attract entries from educators across Nigeria.

Organisers say the programme will continue its mission of identifying and rewarding exceptional teachers who have made significant contributions to education and student development.

For Union Bank, the partnership forms part of its broader commitment to sustainable development and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education.

Rite Foods Limited has called for stronger support systems for children across Nigeria as the country celebrates Children’s Day 2026.

The food and beverage company said Nigerian children must be encouraged to dream boldly, regardless of their background or social circumstances.

In a statement released to commemorate the annual celebration, the company said this year’s Children’s Day theme, “Inclusive for Every Child,” highlights the need for safe and supportive environments where children can learn, grow, and develop confidence.

The company also used the occasion to advocate inclusive education, family support, and equal opportunities for children across the country.

Why it matters

Children’s Day is widely celebrated across Nigeria and often serves as a platform for discussions about child welfare, education, healthcare, and social development.

Education experts and child advocates have repeatedly warned that millions of Nigerian children still face barriers to quality education, nutrition, and safe learning environments, particularly in underserved communities.

Against this backdrop, corporate organisations have increasingly used Children’s Day campaigns to promote social responsibility initiatives focused on education and youth empowerment.

Analysts say such campaigns can help amplify conversations around child development, especially at a time when families continue to face economic pressures linked to inflation and rising living costs.

“Every child carries greatness” — Rite Foods CEO

Speaking on the significance of the celebration, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods, Seleem Adegunwa, said children remain central to Nigeria’s future development.

“Every child carries greatness inside them. When children are given access to education, guidance, love, and opportunities, they become confident leaders, innovators, and changemakers for tomorrow. We must continue to create environments that empower children to dream without limits,” he said.

He added that the company remains committed to supporting Nigerian families through products designed to provide “refreshment, happiness, and value.”

Rite Foods’ product portfolio includes Bigi Carbonated Soft Drinks, Bigi Premium Table Water, Sosa Fruit Drinks, Fearless Energy Drink, Rite Spicy Sausage, and Bigi sausage products.

Investment in children seen as investment in Nigeria’s future

The company’s Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Ekuma Eze, said investment in children remains critical to national development.

“Children are the future leaders, creators, and builders of our nation. When we invest in their education and values today, we are building a stronger and brighter tomorrow for Nigeria. Every child deserves the chance to shine,” he said.

The company said it has continued to engage young Nigerians through initiatives aimed at encouraging creativity, confidence, and self-expression.

Industry recognition and consumer reach

Rite Foods said its operations in Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer goods sector have earned international recognition, including the “Best Foods and Beverage Brand Award” at the Global Brand Awards.

Industry observers say Nigeria’s FMCG sector has become increasingly competitive in recent years, with companies investing heavily in youth-focused branding and consumer engagement strategies.

The company said it plans to continue promoting initiatives that inspire children and families while strengthening consumer satisfaction through innovation and product quality.

What’s next?

As Children’s Day celebrations continue nationwide, stakeholders in education, business, and civil society are expected to intensify conversations around child protection, access to learning, and youth development.

Rite Foods says its message to Nigerian children is simple: continue believing in your abilities and embrace the opportunities ahead.