The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has urged stakeholders in the basic education sector to renew their commitment to providing quality education for Nigerian children.
UBEC Executive Secretary, Hajiya Aisha Garba, made this call on Monday in Abuja during the opening of a three-day meeting between UBEC management and Executive Chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
She emphasized that the meeting demonstrated a shared dedication to ensuring that every Nigerian child, regardless of their background, has access to quality basic education.
Addressing Key Challenges in Basic Education
Hajiya Garba highlighted the need for stronger collaboration at national and state levels to enhance the effectiveness of basic education.
“This workshop offers us an opportunity to assess our progress, identify challenges, and develop new strategies for achieving an efficient basic education system in Nigeria,” she said.
She acknowledged that despite years of educational reforms, the country still faces significant challenges in delivering quality basic education. She called for urgent action to address issues such as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, teacher shortages, lack of relevant learning materials, and the need for a more inclusive teaching and learning environment.
Commitment to Teacher Development and Out-of-School Children
Speaking on behalf of the SUBEB Chairmen, the Dean of SUBEB Chairmen and Kwara SUBEB Chairman, Prof. Adaramaja Shehu, congratulated the UBEC Executive Secretary on her appointment. He also commended UBEC’s leadership for approving the 2023/2024 teachers’ development fund, which will soon be utilized for teacher training programs across states.
Prof. Shehu expressed confidence that the meeting would lead to improved school effectiveness and better learning outcomes. He urged all stakeholders to work together to eliminate the issue of out-of-school children.
Government’s Commitment to Education Reform
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, represented by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA), Dr. Ismaila Adiatu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the growing crisis of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
“The Federal Government is dedicated to promoting quality education and inspiring renewed hope by prioritizing qualitative basic education, which serves as the foundation for the entire education system,” he said.
Dr. Alausa outlined key government initiatives, including improving teacher quality, enhancing school environments, ensuring the availability of instructional materials, and implementing effective quality assurance measures.
He also revealed that a committee has been established to categorize schools across Nigeria, helping to identify areas in urgent need of intervention.
“These efforts align with Mr. President’s ‘Education for Renewed Hope’ initiative, aimed at preparing Nigerian youths for the 21st-century economy,” he added.
The Minister urged stakeholders to reevaluate existing strategies, explore alternative funding sources, and strengthen collaborations to ensure that every Nigerian child receives a quality education.
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