The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has unveiled plans to introduce technology-driven learning across Nigeria’s basic education system as part of a national transformation agenda.
This was revealed by the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Mrs Aisha Garba, during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday ahead of the 2025 International Conference on Smart Education and Digital Literacy (ICSE 2025).
The three-day conference, which begins on Tuesday, is jointly organised by UBEC and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) under the theme: “Empowering African Smart Education Through Emerging Technologies”.
Garba said the initiative seeks to align Nigeria with other African countries, such as Rwanda, in embracing educational technology.
“Rwanda has advanced to the point of integrating AI in classrooms. In Nigeria, we’ve already taken steps through the establishment of smart schools,” she said.
According to her, there are currently 36 plus one smart schools—one in each state and the Federal Capital Territory—equipped with modern technology, digital content studios, and trained educators proficient in tech-based instruction.
Garba stressed the need to provide essential infrastructure in public primary schools to support the rollout, noting that fewer than 50 per cent currently have access to digital technology.
“Whether in rural, semi-urban, or urban areas, technology must be tailored and applied appropriately,” she said.
Also speaking, KOICA Country Director Kim Eunsub reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital education journey through the KOICA Smart School Initiative. He highlighted achievements such as the construction of model smart schools, teacher training, and the provision of digital learning tools.
Eunsub announced that a second phase of the initiative is scheduled to commence in 2026, adding that the forthcoming conference would serve as a key forum for enhancing collaboration and sharing best practices.
UBEC’s Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical), Rasaq Olajuwon, said the conference aims to improve access to quality basic education through inclusive, tech-enabled strategies.
“We are pleased to welcome 26 distinguished dignitaries, 144 teachers from across Nigeria, and 30 delegates from various African countries,” he stated.
(NAN)