‘Include Supply Chain Mgt In Schools Curriculum’

A Supply Chain Management (SCM) expert and managing partner at ADKO Investment Limited, Yetunde Adeoye has called for the inclusion of SCM courses in Nigerian high schools and universities.

Speaking at a conference with Nigerian educators, Adeoye emphasised the need for early-stage awareness and structured academic programs to address the knowledge gap and enhance career opportunities in the sector.

Adeoye highlighted the crucial role of SCM in business operations, logistics, procurement, and distribution. She noted that despite its significance, SCM remains largely underrepresented in Nigerian institutions, leaving many graduates unprepared for careers in the field.

According to her, the inclusion of Supply Chain Management as a standalone course in Nigerian colleges is crucial. Nigeria’s expanding industries, including agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, and retail, require professionals who can optimise supply chains for efficiency and profitability.

“Without formal SCM education, many employees enter the field with no prior knowledge, forcing companies to spend significant resources on training, which affects productivity.”

Adeoye explained that SCM offers vast career prospects in industries such as e-commerce, procurement, and supply chain consultancy, helping to create more job opportunities for young graduates. She also emphasised that in today’s globalized economy, Nigeria needs skilled supply chain professionals to remain competitive in international trade.

“With the rise of digital supply chains and automation in logistics, we need an educated workforce that can adapt to technological advancements. Many Nigerian graduates lack specialized knowledge in supply chain logistics, procurement, and inventory management, leading to inefficiencies across various sectors. A well-trained supply chain workforce will enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness,” she added.

Adeoye urged the Nigerian government, private sector, and educational institutions to collaborate in integrating SCM into the national curriculum, saying that “the Nigerian government and educational bodies should introduce SCM as a full-fledged course or integrate it into business and engineering programs. Colleges must also work closely with industry experts to develop practical, industry-relevant curricula.”

She also emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in driving this initiative, stating, “we must partner with logistics companies, manufacturing firms, and e-commerce platforms to provide internships and hands-on training. Private-sector investment in SCM education through scholarships, research funding, and academic partnerships is also crucial.”

Adeoye stressed the need for government support in making SCM education a national priority, adding that “the Nigerian Ministry of Education should establish policies mandating SCM inclusion in higher education. Funding must also be allocated to equip colleges with the necessary resources, including modern logistics laboratories and simulation centres.”

Adeoye reaffirmed that integrating SCM into Nigeria’s educational system is essential for economic development, employment generation, and global trade competitiveness.

She explained that “a well-structured SCM education system will not only benefit students and enhance their career prospects but also strengthen Nigeria’s industrial and commercial sectors, positioning the country as a hub for efficient supply chain operations in Africa.”