The Federal Government of Nigeria has trained 10,000 teachers and educators in preparation for the launch of 37 newly constructed “smart schools” across the country. This was announced by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, at the inauguration of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Digital Resource Centre (DRC) in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the government established 37 smart schools, one in each state and the Federal Capital Territory, to enhance Information Communication Technology (ICT) in education. These schools are part of a broader initiative to modernize the educational landscape in Nigeria.
Prof. Mamman emphasized the importance of the UBEC resource centre, stating that it is crucial for implementing smart education in the country. “Ten thousand teachers and educators have received various forms of training at the centre, in preparation for the full take-off of the 37 smart schools,” Mamman said. He highlighted that the centre is among the best globally and that digital technology in education is vital, especially as the current administration under President Bola Tinubu is focused on establishing vocational institutions nationwide.
The minister also assured that efforts would be made to upgrade the centre continually to ensure high-quality delivery.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), praised the concept of the digital resource centre, noting its potential to enhance the educational landscape in Nigeria. She stated, “If education is universal, it means whatever a child learns in Nigeria should be the same as what any other child learns in every other country.” The senator also pledged the Senate Committee on Local Content’s commitment to collaborate with the centre to achieve its goals.
The chairman of the Senate Committee on Education, Lawal Adamu, echoed similar sentiments, describing the smart education centre as essential for global development.
Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, remarked that the establishment of the centre signifies a significant milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of digital education. He expressed optimism about the positive impact that the centre and the smart schools will have on the country’s educational system.
The inauguration of the UBEC Digital Resource Centre marks a progressive step towards integrating advanced technology in Nigerian education, aiming to provide students with skills and knowledge that are on par with global standards.