Transforming Basic Education in Nigeria Through Digital Innovation
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has taken significant steps to modernize Nigeria's basic education system by integrating digital technology into the learning process. This initiative aims to ensure that public schools in Nigeria can compete on a global scale. The efforts have been supported by collaborations with international partners, including the Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
At the closing ceremony of the $10 million KOICA-Nigeria Smart Education Project, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, highlighted the transformation brought about by this partnership. She emphasized that through innovative teaching methods and inclusive learning strategies, the commission has redefined the educational landscape in Nigeria.
Garba revealed that 37 smart schools have been established across all states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Of these, 21 are currently operational, while the remaining 16 are in the process of being launched. Over 8,000 learners have already benefited from the project in 21 states where the smart schools are fully functional.
Before the initiative began in 2021, Nigeria faced significant challenges in its education sector. There were over 10.1 million school-age children out of school, and more than 70% of those enrolled lacked foundational learning skills. Additionally, over 60% of public primary school teachers did not possess basic digital literacy. These statistics prompted the commission to rethink the approach to education and focus on bridging the digital divide.
Through collaboration with KOICA and other strategic partners, UBEC has achieved several milestones. These include developing Nigeria’s first Smart Education Master Plan, training over 300 teachers and school leaders, establishing six world-class Content Development Studios, and creating nearly 4,000 digital learning resources in Mathematics and Science.
In addition to these achievements, UBEC has built 37 UBE Model Smart Schools, with six of them receiving support from KOICA. Although the agency focused on these six schools, the impact of the project has reached over 8,000 learners in 21 states. Garba emphasized that these numbers represent real-life transformations, as they signify improved futures for many students.
The collaboration between UBEC and KOICA has also led to significant infrastructure development in the six pilot schools. Each of these schools is equipped with state-of-the-art Content Development Studios, enabling teachers to create practical digital content for their students. This investment underscores the commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria.
Garba also shared updates on the commission's strategic reforms since her appointment. These reforms have addressed long-standing issues that previously hindered states from accessing necessary resources. For over two decades, a rigid action plan made it difficult for states to obtain matching grants, resulting in missed opportunities and stalled progress. However, the current administration has made changes that are already showing positive results.
These changes have impacted approximately 3 million children, with fund utilization exceeding 60%. Other achievements include the distribution of 420,009 library materials, delivery of over 158,000 Nigerian History books, installation of 740 interactive smart boards, provision of 250 desktop computers for girls’ alternative high schools, and 140 talking computers for learners with special needs.
Deputy Executive Secretary of UBEC (Technical), Mr Razaq Akinyemi Olajuwon, presented an overview of the UBEC-KOICA smart education project. He highlighted how the initiative has increased the capacity of teachers to use and develop ICT content, improving access to quality information and communication technology in classrooms.
Country Director of KOICA, Eunsub Kim, noted that the project uses a blended learning approach, shifting classrooms from teacher-centered to student-centered learning. This method has significantly improved learning outcomes at the basic education level. While the national curriculum remains unchanged, teaching methods have been reimagined to enhance learner engagement and performance.
Project Manager of the UBION Consortium, Professor Dae Joon Hwang, emphasized the importance of sustainability and called for greater involvement from parents and communities. He assured that the second phase of the project, which aims to expand the model to 37 smart schools nationwide, will begin soon.