The Federal Government has reaffirmed its resolve to address critical challenges in basic education across the country.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, stated this on Monday at a three-day meeting of the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, management with executive chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards, SUBEBs, from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, in Abuja.
Alausa also reiterated government’s determination to improve the delivery of quality basic education nationwide.
The minister emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s determination to transform the education sector, particularly in the area of foundational learning.
The meeting, with the theme: “Strengthening Collaboration for Quality Basic Education Delivery in Nigeria,” focused on fostering partnerships to enhance educational outcomes.
Alausa, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant, SSA, Dr. Ismaila Adiatu, disclosed that Tinubu has directed all stakeholders in the basic education sub-sector to intensify efforts to return children to classrooms and reduce the alarming number of out-of-school children.
“The Federal Government remains committed to promoting quality education to inspire renewed hope. Our focus is on prioritizing qualitative basic education, which serves as the foundation for the entire education system and plays a crucial role in national development,” he said.
He further highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing teacher quality and training programmes, improving school infrastructure and the learning environment, ensuring the availability of adequate instructional materials and srengthening quality assurance and evaluation mechanisms
The minister also announced the establishment of a committee to categorize schools across Nigeria, identifying areas requiring urgent intervention. These efforts, he noted, align with President Tinubu’s “Education for Renewed Hope” initiative, aimed at preparing Nigerian youths for the 21st-century economy.
Alausa urged participants to reassess existing strategies and explore innovative approaches to implementing basic education policies. He also emphasized the need for alternative funding sources and stronger collaboration to ensure every Nigerian child has access to quality education.
Also speaking, UBEC Executive Secretary, Hajiya Aisha Garba, underscored the importance of collaboration at both national and state levels to strengthen basic education delivery.
“This gathering is a testament to our shared commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child, regardless of location or background, receives quality education.
We must work together to address the challenges of financing, infrastructure, learning materials, and teacher development while ensuring an inclusive teaching and learning environment,” she stated.
She stressed the need for a comprehensive evaluation of progress made so far, identifying gaps, and devising solutions to enhance the effectiveness of basic education nationwide.
Speaking on behalf of the SUBEB chairmen, Prof. Adaramaja Shehu commended the Executive Secretary on her appointment and appreciated the UBEC management team for their support.
He also lauded the approval of the 2023/2024 Teachers’ Development Fund, noting that capacity-building programs for teachers across the states would soon commence.
Shehu expressed optimism that the meeting would develop strategies to improve school effectiveness, promote best practices, and enhance learning outcomes.
He called on stakeholders to work together in addressing the issue of out-of-school children and ensuring sustained progress in the education sector.
