By Rosemary Etim Bassey
The Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr Aisha Garba, has expressed concern about the future of basic education in Nigeria, saying that more than 10 million school-age children still lack access to education.
She spoke in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, during a four-day engagement meeting with Education Commissioners and Chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) in the South-South and South-East regions. The programme is part of the federal government’s HOPE-EDU initiative, which aims to improve the quality of learning for children.
Dr Garba said the commission is working closely with state governments to rescue children from the streets and enrol them in schools. The initiative focuses on improving literacy, numeracy, and foundational learning, particularly in rural areas.
She added that the programme will help reduce overcrowded classrooms, ensure more children can access school, and improve learning outcomes for over 29 million students nationwide. Dr Garba also emphasised the need for a holistic plan that brings all stakeholders together to guarantee quality education and protect the rights of children.
The HOPE-EDU initiative is designed to give children a better start in life and make sure no child is left behind. It focuses on expanding access to learning, enhancing education systems, and supporting children so they can succeed both in school and in life.