Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has urged Nigerians to rally behind the government at all levels to enhance the development of the country’s basic education. Speaking during a meeting focused on fostering collaboration with the organized private sector and other stakeholders in the implementation of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) program, held yesterday in Abuja, Bobboyi emphasized that education for all is a collective responsibility. He underscored the critical consequences a country might face if it neglects its foundational education levels.
Bobboyi stressed the need for stakeholders to recognize the significance of prioritizing basic education to ensure a brighter future for young children. Despite substantial resources allocated by the federal government to the sector, he acknowledged that certain challenges persist. The meeting aimed to create avenues for the private sector to understand the ongoing initiatives and challenges within the basic education sector.
Highlighting the substantial investment by the federal government, Bobboyi emphasized that running the system requires collaborative efforts, as Nigeria has over 45 million children in the public basic educational sub-sector. He noted the difficulty in achieving desired standards unless teachers are well-compensated and highlighted a reduction in the number of teachers since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bobboyi outlined the future trajectory, emphasizing the role of smart schools. He welcomed the support of the private sector in building a future based on technology to adequately prepare children for the challenges ahead. The meeting also acknowledged the support of KOICA in UBEC’s journey, emphasizing the crucial need for private sector involvement in the pursuit of educational advancement.”
