FG pledges to integrate technology in education to enhance learning outcomes
By Kunle Sanni
Vice President Kashim Shettima has pledged that the federal government will incorporate technology into Nigeria’s educational infrastructure to address human capacity and resource challenges, aiming to improve learning outcomes nationwide.
Speaking during a meeting with the World Bank Nigeria team at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, Shettima emphasized the Tinubu administration’s commitment to leveraging technological advancements to enhance the nation’s education sector.
He noted that the rapidly evolving global technological landscape presents opportunities for Nigeria to significantly improve its educational system.
Shettima stated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is dedicated to driving transformative change in the country by integrating technology into the education system.
He also assured the World Bank team of the government’s resolve to address educational challenges through innovative solutions.
The statement was released by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President).
“Rest assured that where there is a will, there is always a way. Change is often a challenging process, but I am confident that we will overcome these hurdles and move towards sustained growth,” he said.
Shettima referenced India’s success in using KYAN smart class solutions to teach students in rural areas, suggesting that similar innovations could revolutionize Nigeria’s education system.
“In India, Kyan technology is used to teach 50,000 students in rural and underserved areas. I believe technology will significantly enhance our education system,” he noted.
The Vice President called for a comprehensive approach to education reform, including improving infrastructure, teacher training, and the implementation of technology.
“We need a detailed plan to address the gaps in our education system promptly. We must not allow these challenges to persist. The federal government is committed to making the necessary changes, but we need the cooperation of all stakeholders, including state governors, to drive this transformation forward,” VP Shettima said.
Earlier, during their presentation on Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity in Nigeria’s Human Capital, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, the World Bank’s Country Director for Nigeria, outlined their focus on improving governance, health, and education across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The projects, HOPE – Governance, HOPE Primary Health Care, and HOPE Basic Education, are part of a broader initiative to reform governance processes, primary healthcare, and education, with an emphasis on human capital development.
“We are working to revitalize governance, primary healthcare, and education facilities across the country,” Diop said.
He added that all the HOPE series operations are result-based financing (program for results), with results primarily at the sub-national levels.
A core component of the initiative is the use of technology to enhance service delivery in both healthcare and education.
Diop continued: “Digital health tools will be crucial in managing patient records and ensuring follow-up care. We are looking at leveraging AI and other technologies to streamline service delivery in underserved areas.
“The challenge is not just infrastructure but ensuring that skilled workers are in place to provide quality services. We need to rejuvenate our healthcare system and equip our teachers to ensure a better future for our children.”
Other World Bank representatives at the meeting included Operations Manager Taimur Samad; Senior Health Specialist Dr. Ritgak Tilley-Gyado; Governance Specialist Ikechukwu Nweje; Lead Governance Specialist Deborah Isser; and Senior Education Specialist Dilip Parajuli.
