In a bold move to address Nigeria’s persistent learning crisis and improve educational outcomes, the Oando Foundation has unveiled its pioneering LEARNOVATE strategy — a comprehensive framework that applies evidence-based methods, including the targeted use of mother-tongue instruction for early grade learners.
The initiative is designed to build a resilient and inclusive education system that empowers learners with the critical skills needed to solve real-world challenges, foster innovation, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Structured around three transformative pillars — Learning, Planet, and Advocacy — LEARNOVATE aims to close key learning gaps while preparing Nigerian youth for the future.
Learning, the foundational pillar, focuses on equipping students with essential literacy and numeracy skills to ensure a strong academic base for lifelong success. A key component of this approach is the use of the mother-tongue in early education to enhance comprehension and retention among young learners.
The Planet pillar promotes green skills development and climate education to raise a generation of environmentally conscious citizens. Through this focus, students are exposed to sustainability practices and the science behind climate action, encouraging them to become active contributors to a greener future.
Advocacy emphasizes thought leadership and policy engagement, with the goal of influencing systemic change in Nigeria’s education sector. This includes capacity building for teachers and education stakeholders, as well as the adoption of innovative pedagogical methods to enrich classroom experiences.
“The LEARNOVATE framework reflects our long-term vision for a future-ready Nigeria,” said a spokesperson from the Oando Foundation. “By integrating digital skills, environmental awareness, and strong foundational learning, we’re investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.”
With over a decade of experience implementing impactful education interventions, the Oando Foundation has reached more than one million beneficiaries across 244 schools and 170 projects nationwide. The Foundation’s latest strategy builds on this legacy, while also aligning with several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education
- SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
As the Nigerian education system grapples with challenges ranging from inadequate infrastructure to learning poverty, LEARNOVATE presents a forward-looking model grounded in innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.
The Foundation’s commitment signals a significant step toward transforming education in Nigeria and ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive in an evolving global landscape.