The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, through the Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) Programme has presented 160 tablet devices with monthly data subscription to junior secondary schools on Friday, 24th July, at the Conference Room of the Ministry located at Alausa-Ikeja.
The BESDA Programme is a collaboration between the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Education through the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC). It is designed to enhance education management and promote evidence-based decision-making in the delivery of quality education across participating states.
160 tablet devices were distributed in the first phase, to selected junior secondary schools across Lagos State, however all other junior secondary schools in the State, are to receive tablets as well.
The Director, Project, Planning and Research Department, Mr. Opeyemi Martins while speaking at the event revealed that all junior schools are to receive data worth 30GB monthly from Airtel as part of the project’s support initiative.
He stated that this provision is intended to strengthen internet access and aid effective teaching and learning in the schools. Â
Meanwhile, it was explained by the Director of Basic Education Services, Mrs. Toyin Oyedele, that the tablets are not personal property, advising users to utilize them with care, ahead of the next users.
“You must take good care of them and guard them diligently. Whenever you are transferred or posted out of your station, ensure that you leave the tablet behind for your successor.”
The initiative is described by other stakeholders as an important breakthrough in the digital transformation of education.
The distributed tablets will support effective data collection and informed planning, which will eventually improve learning outcomes as well as the basic and secondary education management.
The initiative reflects the commitment of the Lagos State Government to utilizing technology in strengthening the education system.
It also aligns with ongoing efforts to improve the education system. The programme is expected to improve education management processes across the state significantly.