Migrating Basic Education to Digital Era, By Abubakar Yusuf

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) is committed to transforming itself into a comprehensive and efficient agency that serves as a one-stop-shop for all its activities. This transformation aims to streamline the commission’s field operations and office functions across the country within its designated scope.

Recognizing that Basic Education forms the bedrock of learning and considering the global push to integrate new methods into its operations, UBEC has gone beyond merely transforming Basic Education. It has introduced a novel approach through the establishment of ‘Smart Schools.’ These schools are designed to address both natural and artificial challenges, including those arising from recent developments like the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the aftermath of the pandemic, UBEC has heavily invested in creating Smart Schools across the six geopolitical zones. Excluding the mainstream from this digital transformation endeavor would be counterproductive, going against global norms and expectations. Given national and international demands, as well as the prevailing digital transformation trend spanning all sectors, and the federal government’s focus on bridging the digital divide, UBEC cannot afford to lag behind. The establishment of a technical working group (TWG) underscores this commitment. This group is tasked with aligning core operations and records of all government entities.

This strategic move is driven by the multiple advantages it offers across various official engagements. By embracing full automation and digitization, UBEC aims to reduce its reliance on paper-based processes and achieve efficient operations. The commission is wholeheartedly embracing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) innovations, including website revamping and optimized wireless arrangements (WLAN). These measures are intended to enhance internal connectivity and redefine operational tools.

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The transition to automated processes will see the development of e-questionnaires sourced from monitoring data. This is a departure from conventional practices and aligns with the key requirements of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aimed at bolstering robust Basic Education at all levels.

Recognizing that Basic Education is the foundation for educational progression, UBEC’s focus has extended to crafting a contemporary and revamped website for mobile compatibility, seamless interaction, and upgrading its server infrastructure. This initiative is at the core of the commission’s operations.

In line with the government’s digital transformation agenda, the concept of service delivery and improved services is being revamped to align with digitization policies. This not only simplifies government operations but also extends to citizen-friendly information systems, encompassing both the government and private sectors, as well as the informal domain.

UBEC’s current achievements and advancements will not only streamline its activities across the nation but also facilitate timely communications and the fulfillment of its mandate. The commission has proactively reinforced this policy through internal training sessions, seminars, workshops, and discussions. These efforts are supplemented by local and international orientation programs conducted in collaboration with government bodies and private enterprises.

Under the leadership of Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, UBEC’s administration showcases renewed vigor, zeal, and administrative competence. It is evident that the commission is positioning itself to transcend the digital transformation era, emerging ahead of local, international, and global circumstances.

With substantial investments in Smart Schools serving as the cornerstone of its operations and stakeholders, the anticipated outcomes are poised to be significant and unambiguous.

Yusuf, a Public Affairs Analyst based in Abuja, can be contacted via email at yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.