The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish and upgrade model schools in Benue, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The project, a grant aid initiative, aims to improve basic Science, Mathematics, and vocational education by enhancing school facilities and providing essential equipment needed for STEM and prevocational learning.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, highlighted the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and Japan in advancing access to quality education, adding that the initiative which targets both primary and junior secondary schools reaffirms commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child receives inclusive and equitable quality education.
On her part, JICA Country Director, Mr. Ishigame Keiji, reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s educational development.
Under the new agreement, five model schools in the 2 states and Fct will be upgraded with state-of-the-art science laboratories, ICT rooms, vocational training workshops, and gender-sensitive sanitation facilities.