UBEC Urges Governors to Boost Investment in Basic Education

By AmforGod J. Olisa

Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has called on the governors of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration to increase their investment in basic education.

During a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) focused on effective school programs, Bobboyi emphasized that the federal government’s matching grant alone is insufficient to adequately support the basic education sub-sector. He also appealed to CSOs to aid the government through advocacy and sensitization of stakeholders on the importance of prioritizing basic education.

Bobboyi highlighted several critical issues, including the large number of out-of-school children, inadequate teaching and learning infrastructure, outdated UBE enabling Act, gaps in teacher quality and availability, low partnerships for UBE delivery, insecurity, and the lack of awareness about the importance of education in rural and underserved communities.

He urged state governments to show their commitment to improving basic education by promptly accessing their intervention funds and addressing the issue of out-of-school children. Additionally, Bobboyi revealed that UBEC would soon launch an Open School Program designed to provide a flexible learning approach for Nigerians.

“UBEC is finalizing arrangements for the Open Schooling Programme in the basic education sub-sector as an accelerated education intervention. This program is intended to provide a flexible learning approach and support those who cannot access traditional UBE settings,” Bobboyi said.

Despite significant efforts and investments by various stakeholders, including the government, corporate entities, and private individuals, substantial improvements are still needed in the education sector, according to Bobboyi.

Source; The Guardian