Reimagining Learning: How Olubunmi Mercy Odiaka’s “Wholistic Edu Consult” Breeds Innovation

By Kehinde Balogun

Humanity’s quest for learning began long before writing, with elders passing wisdom, orally in prehistoric communities. Ancient civilizations then developed formal systems for their elites, focusing on core societal values. The medieval period saw religious institutions and early universities preserve learning, paving the way for the Renaissance and Enlightenment to champion scientific inquiry and broader access. The Industrial Revolution brought public schooling, making education a global right by the 20th century. In Nigeria, traditional learning, centered on morals and community was later met by the Western and the Islamic systems, with post-independence efforts continuing to expand access despite ongoing hurdles.

Unfortunately, today, education in Nigeria and some parts of the world often feels stuck, lacking substance, focusing too much on exams and theory instead of real-life skills. Many teachers are just trained to copy lesson notes on the board, even dictate maths, deliver content, which means crucial aspects like emotional intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking get overlooked. That’s why Wholistic Edu Consult, a dream of over a decade and five was created: to fill this void by championing a well-rounded approach that empowers students, and even their tutors, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and spiritually, preparing them not just for tests, but for life itself.

Wholistic Edu Consult is a forward-thinking educational consulting agency committed to transforming teaching and learning through a well-rounded, human-centered approach. Rooted in Bloom’s Taxonomy, it focuses on the three core domains of learning: Cognitive (head), Psychomotor (hands), and Affective (heart) to nurture academic intelligence, emotional well-being, and practical skills. Through training, coaching, and mentorship, the agency partners with children, teachers, parents, and institutions to promote balanced, meaningful, and life-shaping education. Its mission is to raise learners who not only know, but can do and become, equipping them for life beyond the classroom.

Wholistic Edu Consult offers a wide range of thoughtfully designed programs that cater to the real needs of learners, parents, and educators. From nurturing well-rounded thinking through Concerted Intelligence, to helping teachers and caregivers understand children better through Child Psychology and practical Parenting Strategies, the agency focuses on building strong foundations for growth. Children also benefit from engaging sessions in Phonics, Phonetics, and Diction Mastery, helping them speak and read with confidence. Creativity is sparked through Arts and Crafts, while Elocution as a Skill and Art builds bold, expressive communicators. At its core, Wholistic Edu Consult is about more than academics—it’s about raising confident, expressive, and emotionally aware individuals who are ready for life, not just the classroom.

Learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, auditory and visual processing disorders, nonverbal learning disabilities, and ADHD among many others can affect how children learn, communicate, and focus; especially the African Child, whose struggles are shaped by deeper societal challenges. These challenges impact academic performance and self-esteem, but they do not define a child’s potential. With proper support, children can thrive. Wholistic Edu Consult focuses not on limitations, but on each child’s unique strengths. Through personalized strategies and emotional support,the agency helps children overcome challenges and focus solely on their abilities, and how to manage their challenges.

Wholistic Edu Consult offers its support through carefully tailored courses, conferences, and workshops designed to meet the real, everyday needs of those shaping the learning journey. Whether you’re a teacher or educator seeking better ways to engage your students, a parent or guardian wanting to understand your child’s learning style, a government agency or institution aiming to improve education delivery, or simply an individual passionate about holistic learning, there’s something for you. Each session is crafted with empathy, relevance, and practical insights — ensuring that every participant walks away empowered, informed, and inspired to make a meaningful impact.

In its unwavering commitment to raising the standard of education, Wholistic Edu Consult organizes the annual Teachers’ Leadership Conference in partnership with selected local governments and education stakeholders. This inspiring event celebrates teachers in all roles, both in and beyond the classroom. It provides a space for teaching and non-teaching staff to be seen, heard, and equipped with the tools, mindset, and confidence to lead with impact. At its heart, the initiative recognizes that educators are not just instructors; they are nation builders, influencers, and everyday heroes who shape lives and futures. Through this platform, Wholistic Edu Consult continues to honour and empower those at the frontline of learning.

The founder of Wholistic Edu Consult, Olubunmi Mercy Odiaka holds a BSc.Ed in Health Education from Ekiti State University, an M.Ed in Early Childhood Education from Lagos State University, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Early Childhood Education. She is certified by the British Council, Cambridge English, TESOL, and Google Analytics. With over a decade of experience, she serves as a parenting analyst specializing in EFT tapping; an Emotional Intelligence practitioner, and a diction, phonics, and elocution coach. She is a member of CTAA, APA, ADCN, ETAN, and ECAN, and has attended several international trainings on communication, elocution, public speaking, and educational leadership. She currently serves as the Lead Consultant at Wholistic Edu Consult.

Also, in an attempt to effect positive change in another form, Wholistic Edu Consult plans to launch The Mirror With The Educationist,” a thought-provoking podcast where professors, educators, parents, and even professionals from unrelated fields are invited to share their perspectives from a teacher’s seat, whether or not they’ve ever stood in front of a classroom. Each guest will respond to real-life education scenarios and questions designed to spark ideas that could either directly improve a child’s life or contribute to reshaping Nigeria’s educational system, including the curriculum. For actual teachers, it’s an opportunity to reflect on and share their teaching journeys. The podcast, set to be released quarterly, aims to bridge diverse experiences and spark meaningful conversations that drive educational growth and reform.

What sets Wholistic Edu Consult apart as a true outlier in the education space is its bold and imaginative blend of both unconventional and conventional teaching methods. With a unique approach that seamlessly weaves playway techniques, storytelling, and experiential learning into traditional academic structures, the organization redefines what effective education looks like. It’s as though the old, familiar bottle of the education system has been filled with a fresh, vibrant new wine — infused with innovation, relevance, and a deep understanding of how children truly learn. This daring fusion not only engages learners but also nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for knowledge.