FG, UBEC Launch Digitalisation of Public Schools Nationwide

The Federal Government, through the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has officially launched the Digitalisation of Public Schools initiative, marking a major milestone in the drive toward technology-enabled learning across Nigeria. The national flag-off and distribution of Interactive Smart Boards took place on Friday, 10th October 2025, at Queens College, Yaba, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, CON, described the initiative as a bold declaration that Nigeria is ready to embrace the future of learning. He explained that the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation, digital literacy, and inclusive access to education as part of efforts to build a globally competitive nation.

Dr. Alausa reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child, regardless of background or location, benefits from quality, technology-driven education. He noted that the initiative advances the National Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), particularly Point 5 on Data and Digitalisation, which focuses on strengthening digital infrastructure, data systems, and evidence-based planning in the education sector.

The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Hajiya Aisha Garba, outlined key components of the Commission’s digitalisation agenda, including the distribution of over 60,000 tablets to teachers under the BESDA-AF initiative, the establishment of Digital Learning Centres across all geopolitical zones, collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) on a National Digital Literacy Curriculum, the provision of assistive technologies such as talking computers for visually impaired learners, and the creation of a Department for Data and Artificial Intelligence in Education.

She added that the rollout of over 800 Interactive Smart Boards to public schools nationwide would revolutionise classroom teaching and learning. “These smart boards will transform classrooms into dynamic learning spaces that make education a journey of discovery,” Hajiya Garba stated, reaffirming UBEC’s commitment to equipping teachers and learners with 21st-century tools.

In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr. Hakeem Shittu, commended the Federal Government and UBEC for the initiative, describing it as a reinforcement of Lagos State’s digital education drive under the EKOEXCEL programme. He noted that the project aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly the pillar on Education and Technology, which focuses on equipping pupils with 21st-century skills.

Dr. Shittu reaffirmed LASUBEB’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with UBEC to deepen digital learning and ensure continuous innovation in Lagos public schools.

Benefiting Lagos schools under the first phase include St. Joseph Primary School, Ibowon-Epe; Queens College, Yaba; Adeniyi Jones Primary School, Ikeja; Victoria Island Primary School, Eti-Osa; Anglican Primary School, Ishawo; and All Saints Anglican Primary School, Yaba.