FG Launches Nationwide Digitalization Of Basic Public Schools with Smart Board Distribution.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming education delivery in basic public schools through digital technology.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced this on Friday in Lagos during the official launch of the Digitalization of Public Schools Initiative and the flag-off of the distribution of Interactive Smart Boards to public schools across Nigeria.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), is designed to enhance access to quality education and equip Nigerian children with modern learning tools.
“Today’s event is more than a technological upgrade; it is a bold declaration that Nigeria is ready to embrace the future of learning. Our goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of background or location, has access to quality, modern, technology-enabled education,” Dr. Alausa said.
He noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places education at the center of national development. The Minister emphasized that digital transformation is key to preparing Nigerian learners for the demands of the digital economy and a globally competitive, knowledge-driven society.
“Education must evolve with the world of work, innovation, and national competitiveness. That is why we are embedding AI, EdTech, and digital literacy across curricula ensuring our youth are equipped with STEMM, data, and coding skills for the future,” he added.
Highlighting the benefits of smart classrooms, Alausa said the introduction of interactive smart boards marks a shift from traditional chalkboards to dynamic, technology driven learning environments.
“These smart boards will allow teachers to integrate multimedia, digital textbooks, and real-time interaction into their lessons. Learners will learn by touching, exploring, and engaging not just listening,” he explained.
The Minister commended UBEC and the State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) for their leadership in advancing the digital education agenda.
Speaking at the event, UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, described the launch as a landmark moment in Nigeria’s journey toward digitalizing its basic education system.
“It demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that no child, teacher, or school is left behind in the ongoing global digital revolution,” she said.
Dr. Garba emphasized that technology has become the foundation of progress globally, and the education sector must keep pace.
“Digital transformation has become the bedrock of progress across every sector — and education must not be left behind,” she said, adding that smart boards will make classroom learning more interactive and engaging.
According to her, the boards allow teachers to deliver lessons using simulations, multimedia content, and real time feedback, helping pupils to learn more actively and creatively.
She also highlighted additional strides made under the digital transformation drive, including:
The BESDA-AF Initiative, under which over 60,000 tablets were distributed to teachers nationwide;
Partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to develop a Digital Literacy Curriculum for Basic Education;
Training of teachers in digital literacy skills across states;
Establishment of Digital Learning Centres;
Creation of a Dedicated Department for Data and AI in Education.
“As we flag off the distribution of interactive smart boards today, I want to emphasize that this is only the beginning. The digital transformation of our basic education system is a long-term journey one that demands sustainability, capacity development, and continuous innovation,” Dr. Garba concluded.
