FG has given the green light for a comprehensive survey of schools across Nigeria, spanning from primary to tertiary levels. This initiative aims to gather data on various aspects including school conditions, facilities, proximity, and educational resources.
The census will also focus on gathering information about the number of teachers, their qualifications, training, as well as the enrollment and performance of students in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions.
Tinubu emphasized the need for accurate data to plan effectively, highlighting the lack of coordinated information as a challenge in Nigeria’s education sector.
The goal of this initiative is to revamp the education sector, enhance learning and skill development, increase enrollment, and ensure the academic well-being of Nigerian children.
Acknowledging the significant number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, the initiative, known as DOTS, aims to address key areas such as Data Repository, Out-of-School Children Education, Teacher Training and Development, and Skill Development and Acquisition.
The gathered data will inform government interventions at the federal, state, and local levels, providing insights into gender ratios, specific learning needs, and dropout rates.
Furthermore, a dedicated portal/dashboard will be established to facilitate real-time monitoring and dissemination of information for effective decision-making.
Efforts to address out-of-school children’s education and training are already underway, with the government implementing policies through various agencies to support millions of beneficiaries.
In terms of teacher development, the Education Ministry will focus on digital skills training to integrate technology into classrooms, while also emphasizing skill development and acquisition at all levels through the National Skills Framework.
The framework aims to equip Nigerian students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and values to thrive in the 21st-century global economy, addressing skill gaps, improving the quality of education, and tackling unemployment concerns.
Once fully implemented, these programs are expected to significantly improve the education system in Nigeria, aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
(Punch)