By | YOUNG, D
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to connect schools across Nigeria to reliable internet service as part of a broader push to modernise the education system and prepare students for a digital future.
Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, disclosed this after a strategic meeting with the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani. He said the initiative followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to expand digital infrastructure across the country.
According to Alausa, the plan is aimed at strengthening collaboration between both ministries so that schools at all levels can benefit from improved connectivity. He said the effort would build on the existing work of the Nigerian Research and Education Network while extending access beyond tertiary institutions to primary and secondary schools.
The minister said the government wants universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and lower level schools connected to stable internet so they can take part fully in digital learning and new technology driven education.
He added that wider internet access in schools would support the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and also ease the country’s gradual shift towards Computer Based Testing for national examinations.
The move signals a wider attempt by the Federal Government to align education policy with its digital economy agenda. It also comes amid ongoing efforts to expand broadband infrastructure nationwide through major fibre optic projects intended to improve connectivity across underserved areas.
Officials say improving internet access in schools will help broaden access to online learning resources, strengthen digital skills among students and teachers, and improve readiness for a knowledge driven economy.
The latest plan is expected to place renewed attention on the infrastructure gaps that have continued to limit digital learning in many public schools, especially in rural communities where internet access and electricity remain inconsistent.
With the new collaboration between the education and communications ministries, the government appears set to push for a more connected school system, one it believes can better equip Nigerian students for future jobs, digital innovation, and a technology centred global economy.
