UBEC unveils nationwide rollout of smart education technology

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has unveiled plans to implement smart education technology across Nigeria as part of efforts to transform the basic education sector.

Executive Secretary of UBEC, Dr. Aisha Garba, made the disclosure on Monday during a media briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2025 International Conference on Smart Education and Digital Literacy (ICSE 2025). 

The event, scheduled for May 6–9, is jointly organised with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

The conference, themed “Empowering African Smart Education Through Emerging Technologies,” seeks to align Nigeria with other African countries leveraging digital tools for education.

Garba noted that countries like Rwanda have made significant progress, including the integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms. 

She said Nigeria has taken initial steps with the establishment of “smart schools” in all 36 states and the FCT.

“These smart schools are highly advanced with content studios and trained teachers skilled in digital instruction,” she said.

Despite this progress, Garba expressed concern that less than 50% of public primary schools in Nigeria currently have access to digital technology.

“To address this, UBEC is shifting from traditional infrastructure investments to technology-driven models that will make basic education more accessible and future-ready,” she said.

She emphasized the commission’s commitment to equipping schools with the digital tools needed for effective teaching and learning.