By Uriel Ihotu
Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government has unveiled the pilot phase of its new Digital Learning Initiative, a landmark project designed to strengthen the integration of technology in teaching and learning across Nigeria. The pilot, which will run from December 2025 to July 2026, aims to enhance teachers’ access to digital resources and promote equitable learning opportunities nationwide.
The initiative, implemented with technical support from the UK-funded Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) programme, underscores the government’s commitment to advancing education through a robust Education Public-Private Partnership (ePPP) framework.
Speaking during the roundtable that brought together key government officials, private sector leaders, and development partners, Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu Alausa, also inaugurated a Coordination and Implementation Committee (CIC) to oversee the programme and ensure effective cross-sector collaboration.
The committee comprises representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. Other members include the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and PLANE.
According to Dr. Alausa, teachers participating in the pilot will enjoy free access to the Federal Government’s eLearn platform and other approved digital resources, powered by zero-rated data provided through partner telecommunications and internet exchange providers.
“We know teachers are not being paid enough, and we’re not pretending otherwise,” he said. “Expecting them to bear the cost of data for digital teaching tools is unrealistic. This initiative ensures they can access what they need without paying anything.”
Registrar of TRCN, Dr. Ronke Soyombo, hailed the initiative as “a significant stride toward making digital learning more accessible to all.” She noted that the intervention would empower teachers to integrate technology into classroom instruction, foster continuous professional development, and bridge the digital divide in the education sector.
“The provision of zero-rated or subsidised data bundles is not just a technical solution but a strategic intervention that promotes digital inclusion,” Dr. Soyombo said. “TRCN is committed to ensuring that every Nigerian teacher is digitally empowered and professionally equipped to thrive in a technology-driven education landscape.”
The Digital Learning Initiative represents a crucial step in the Federal Government’s broader vision to transform the education system through technology, improve learning outcomes, and prepare teachers and learners alike for the demands of the 21st century.
