SEC to Revamp Capital Market Curriculum in Nigerian Universities to Include AI, Fintech, and Cybersecurity

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to enhance capital market education across Nigerian universities by introducing subjects like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and financial technology (fintech). Dr. Emomotimi Agama, SEC’s Director General, announced this initiative during the inauguration of a committee tasked with expanding the existing securities and investment management curriculum.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has already approved the updated curriculum for use in Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions. The newly formed committee will be chaired by Professor Uche Uwaleke, a capital market studies expert from Nasarawa State University. “Due to rapid advancements in fintech, cybersecurity, AI, and more, the curriculum must evolve to equip young Nigerians with relevant knowledge about the capital market,” Uwaleke stated. “This is an important time for us to ensure that the next generation is educated on these topics.”

Dr. Agama outlined the committee’s responsibilities, which include reviewing the current NUC curriculum to integrate aspects like non-interest capital markets, the commodities ecosystem, derivatives, sustainable finance, and enhanced regulations. Additionally, the committee will update the “Introduction to Cryptocurrency” section to reflect current industry developments and create a standardized curriculum for widespread use in universities and colleges across Nigeria.

Professor Uwaleke acknowledged the SEC’s commitment to capital market literacy and highlighted the need to address the low level of awareness among Nigerian students. He commended the SEC’s past efforts in hosting investor clinics, quizzes, and essay competitions, while underscoring the significance of educating students at tertiary institutions. “Our retail investor base is limited, and capital market education is crucial to addressing this. By focusing on tertiary institutions, we can make a real impact,” he noted.

Assuring that the committee is prepared to deliver on its objectives, Uwaleke expressed confidence that their collective expertise would be instrumental in creating a robust curriculum that aligns with the nation’s educational and economic goals.