A bill that seeks to amend the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Act by raising its funding from 2 percent to 4 percent from the consolidated revenue has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives. This development was disclosed by Bako Useni, the Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services, during the committee’s oversight function at the Digital Resource Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, which was established by UBEC for the purpose of training teachers on digital education in the country.
Emphasizing the importance of increasing financial resources in the basic education sub-sector to achieve set objectives, Useni mentioned that the 10th Assembly recognized the necessity for enhancing UBEC’s funding. Consequently, an amendment bill, championed by Muktar Shagaya, was introduced to elevate the revenue allocation to UBEC from 2 percent to 4 percent.
Useni articulated, “Through this amendment bill, which successfully passed its second reading on Wednesday, UBEC will be fortified. Since its establishment in 2004, UBEC has made significant strides. However, the House believes that boosting UBEC with additional funding will significantly enhance its achievements.”
Expressing satisfaction with the Digital Resource Centre established by UBEC, Useni conveyed the committee’s commitment to introducing innovative approaches to the basic education sector in Nigeria. He remarked, “The Centre represents a new era in basic education in Nigeria, promising to enhance teachers’ training and educational content.”
Additionally, he pledged the committee’s unwavering dedication to overseeing the sustainability of the Digital Resource Centre and other projects falling within its purview. Useni assured, “We are committed to monitoring the quality of training provided to our teachers and other stakeholders. This Centre plays a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s education sector.”
Dr. Hameed Bobboyi, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, lauded the Centre as a transformative initiative aimed at propelling digital education in Nigeria to greater heights. He expressed delight in showcasing the Centre’s facilities to the House Committee members, which include the Digital Museum, Library, Artificial Intelligence Centre, studio, micro-labs, lecture halls, and accommodations.
Bobboyi remarked, “Bringing the esteemed members to witness UBEC’s efforts in digital education within the basic education sub-sector is rewarding. This facility will ensure our educators are well-versed in modern pedagogy, preparing them to actively engage in digital learning. It marks the beginning of a paradigm shift in our basic education sub-sector.”
He highlighted the pivotal role of the digital resource centre in coordinating smart schools nationwide to facilitate digital learning, as well as its significance in enhancing the skills of senior staff in the basic education sub-sector.
Professor Bashir Galandanci, the National Coordinator of the Digital Resource Centre, underscored the Centre’s role in steering UBEC into the digital age as part of the agency’s transformation efforts.