Lagos: The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming public schools through digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to build a knowledge-based economy and globally competitive learners. The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, stated this at the inauguration of the Digitalisation of Public Schools Initiative and the flag-off of Interactive Smart Boards distribution in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, organised by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), was held at Queen’s College, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, with dignitaries, stakeholders, and the school’s alumni in attendance. Alausa said the partnership with UBEC had created an enabling environment for the nationwide distribution of over 1,000 interactive smart boards and teacher training programmes.
Dr. Alausa emphasized the necessity for education to evolve in tandem with the world of work and innovation, highlighting the integration of AI, EdTech, Robotics, coding, and digital literacy across school curricula. He noted that the transition from traditional chalkboards to smart boards signifies a shift towards interactive, technology-driven learning that fosters engagement and creativity.
The Minister described the initiative as more than a mere technological enhancement, but as a bold declaration of Nigeria’s readiness to embrace the future of learning. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support of the initiative, which includes the distribution of 1,000 smart boards to schools in Lagos to boost digital learning.
The Minister further commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his Innovate Eko STEAM programme, which aims to equip young people with modern technological skills. Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, urged teachers to embrace the new devices and commended the Federal Ministry for its forward-thinking initiative.
Alli-Balogun also noted that UBEC had distributed over 800 interactive smart boards to basic education schools nationwide to bridge the learning gap and improve education quality. He emphasized that the initiative ensures every Nigerian child, regardless of background, has access to inclusive, innovative, and technology-driven education.
Dr. Aisha Mohammed, UBEC Executive Secretary, mentioned that over 60,000 smart boards had been distributed nationwide along with comprehensive digital literacy training for teachers. She explained that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda for Education, aiming to transition Nigeria from a resource-based to a knowledge-driven economy.
The Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Mr. Hakeem Shittu, remarked that the UBEC initiative would strengthen existing digital infrastructure and promote collaboration in tech-driven education. He stated that this initiative reaffirms the joint commitment of federal and state governments to bridge the digital divide and prepare learners for a future built on innovation.