The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched a new initiative that will provide eligible students and learners with up to 100MB of free data every day to access approved educational websites and digital learning platforms.
Also read: Why is charity important in Islam?
The initiative, known as the Zero-Rated Data Access to Educational Platforms and Content, is designed to expand access to online education, reduce digital inequality, and support the development of skills needed for Nigeria’s digital economy.
Under the initial operator-sponsored model, participating telecommunications companies will provide the daily data allowance when users access approved educational platforms. The initiative could provide beneficiaries with about 700MB weekly, 3GB monthly, and up to 36.5GB annually for educational purposes.
Speaking at the launch, NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Dr Aminu Maida, said connectivity remains essential for Nigerians to take advantage of digital-skills and educational opportunities.
According to him, although 100MB may appear small on a daily basis, its cumulative impact could become significant when extended over months and across millions of learners.
The NCC said the programme is part of efforts to widen digital access and ensure that the cost of internet connectivity does not prevent students from accessing educational resources online.
The initiative is expected to support activities such as online research, accessing digital libraries, reading educational materials and using approved learning platforms. However, data-intensive activities such as video streaming could consume the daily allowance more quickly.
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has also welcomed the initiative, describing it as a development that could contribute to improving digital education in the country.
The NCC’s initiative comes as online learning continues to become an increasingly important part of education, making affordable and reliable internet access a key factor in ensuring that more Nigerian students can participate in digital learning.
Leave a Comment