Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to quality education and digital literacy, describing it as a top priority under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking at an event in Abuja, Shettima called for increased private sector collaboration to advance digital learning as MTN Nigeria distributed digital devices to students of Government Science Secondary School, Pyakasa.
The event marked the presentation of tablets pre-installed with U-Lesson software, part of MTN Nigeria’s donation of 4,600 devices to secondary school students across the country’s six geopolitical zones, according to the telecoms company. The initiative aims to enhance digital literacy and bridge the gap between Nigerian students and their global counterparts in a technology-driven world.
Shettima emphasised the transformative role of technology in modern education. “The classroom is no longer just a physical space; it is now an infinite world of knowledge, only a click away,” he said.
The Vice President described the distribution of the devices as more than corporate social responsibility, calling it an investment in Nigeria’s intellectual capital and a step toward preparing students for the demands of the 21st century.
Shettima praised MTN Nigeria for its contribution to digital education, describing the telecom giant’s gesture as a testament to its commitment to Nigeria’s progress. He also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing challenges within the education sector.
“We deeply appreciate MTN for rising to the occasion through this donation. We trust that MTN and other members of the private sector will continue to support this administration in building a future where every Nigerian child has access to quality education and tools to thrive in a digital world,” Shettima stated.
The Vice President also acknowledged the leadership of MTN Nigeria’s Board Chairman, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, for supporting government efforts to equip students with essential tools for digital learning.
The devices distributed by MTN come pre-installed with U-Lesson software, an educational platform designed to provide students with access to interactive learning materials in subjects such as mathematics, science, and English. The initiative aligns with global trends in education where digital tools are increasingly used to enhance learning experiences and improve outcomes.
Dr. Ndukwe described the donation as part of MTN’s broader commitment to advancing digital inclusion and literacy across Nigeria. “These tablets represent our dedication to empowering the next generation with essential tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” he said.
The initiative is expected to significantly impact science education and digital literacy across Nigeria. According to Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, this programme consolidates ongoing partnerships between the government and private sector aimed at enhancing educational advancement nationwide.
Adekunle-Johnson noted that similar initiatives would be replicated in schools across the country, further integrating technology into classrooms and improving access to quality education for Nigerian students.
Mukhtar Shagaya, Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Basic and Secondary Education, echoed these sentiments, stating that public-private partnerships are critical for addressing challenges in Nigeria’s education sector. He pledged legislative support from the National Assembly to create policies that would further advance educational innovation.
Mallam Isa Okuru, Principal of Government Science Secondary School, Pyakasa, described the distribution of devices as an investment in students’ futures. He highlighted its potential to advance science education, technology adoption, and innovation among young Nigerians.
The event was attended by top government officials, representatives from MTN Nigeria, and other stakeholders in the education sector. The programme underscored ongoing efforts by both public and private entities to equip Nigerian students with tools that enable them to compete globally in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, according to government.
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