By Rosemary Etim Bassey
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.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, stated this at the launch of the Digitalisation of Public Schools Initiative and the flag-off of the distribution of interactive smart boards on Friday at Queen’s College, Sabo, Lagos.
The event, organised by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), brought together education stakeholders, dignitaries, and members of the school’s alumni association.
Dr. Alausa said the partnership with UBEC had enabled the nationwide distribution of over 1,000 interactive smart boards alongside teacher training programmes to strengthen classroom innovation.
“Education must evolve with the world of work and innovation. Hence, we are embedding AI, EdTech, robotics, coding, and digital literacy across school curricula,” he said.
He explained that the transition from chalkboards to smart boards marked a shift from one-way teaching to interactive, technology-driven learning that enhances engagement and creativity.
“These smart boards allow teachers to integrate multimedia and real-time interaction into lessons, enabling learners to explore, engage, and create actively,” the minister added.
Describing the initiative as a bold declaration of Nigeria’s readiness for the future of learning, Alausa commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the project and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his Innovate Eko STEAM programme, which equips young people with modern technological skills.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, urged teachers to embrace the new devices, noting that UBEC had already distributed over 800 interactive smart boards to basic education schools nationwide.
“The initiative ensures that every Nigerian child, regardless of background, has access to inclusive, innovative, and technology-driven education,” he said.
UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Mohammed, revealed that over 60,000 smart boards had been distributed across the country, alongside digital literacy training for teachers. She said the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda for Education, aimed at transforming Nigeria from a resource-based to a knowledge-driven economy.
“UBEC has also provided assistive technologies, including talking computers for visually impaired learners, ensuring equitable access to digital learning,” she noted.
The Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Mr. Hakeem Shittu, said the initiative would strengthen existing digital infrastructure and promote collaboration in technology-driven education.
“This reaffirmed the joint commitment of federal and state governments to bridge the digital divide and prepare learners for a future built on innovation,” he said.
