By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming public schools through digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI), in a bid to build a knowledge-based economy and nurture globally competitive learners.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made this known during the launch of the Digitalisation of Public Schools Initiative and the official flag-off of Interactive Smart Boards distribution held in Sabo, Lagos State.
Dr Alausa explained that the partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) had created an enabling environment for the nationwide distribution of interactive smart boards and teacher training programmes.
He noted that the transition from chalkboards to smart boards marks a shift from one-way teaching to interactive, technology-driven learning that fosters creativity and engagement among students.
Describing the project as more than a technological upgrade, the Minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the digitalisation drive, adding that 1,000 smart boards would be distributed to schools in Lagos to strengthen digital learning.
He also lauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his “Innovate Eko STEAM” programme, which aims to equip young people with 21st-century technological skills.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun, urged teachers to embrace the new devices, commending the Federal Ministry of Education for its visionary leadership.
He reiterated that Lagos State remains committed to educational excellence through classroom modernisation, vocational training, and digital literacy under the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Ms Aisha Mohammed, disclosed that over 60,000 smart boards had been distributed across the country, alongside comprehensive digital literacy training for teachers.
She said the initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Education, aimed at transforming Nigeria from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-driven nation.
Leave a Reply