The Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has embarked on an ambitious infrastructural development project aimed at revolutionizing the basic education landscape within the state. The project’s centerpiece involves the establishment of mega schools in each of the 16 local government areas, a strategic move designed to provide access to high-quality education across the state. These mega schools, envisioned as centers of academic excellence, will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern ICT tools, audio-visual equipment, and specialized laboratories for science, computer studies, and home economics. Each school will boast 12 classrooms, accommodating at least 400 pupils, ensuring a conducive learning environment for a significant number of students. Furthermore, the schools will feature essential amenities like libraries, modern toilet facilities with water and sanitation provisions, and perimeter fencing to ensure the safety and security of students and staff.
The strategic placement of these mega schools will be determined by school enrollment figures, ensuring that areas with higher student populations benefit most from this initiative. This data-driven approach aims to optimize resource allocation and maximize the impact of the project on the overall educational landscape. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to providing equitable access to quality education for all children in the state, regardless of their location. By strategically locating these schools, SUBEB aims to address disparities in educational opportunities and ensure that no child is left behind. The comprehensive nature of the mega schools project, encompassing infrastructure, technology, and capacity building, reflects a holistic approach to educational development.
The financial commitment to this ambitious project is substantial, with Governor Biodun Oyebanji approving the payment of over N3.5 billion as counterpart funds for the 2024 UBEC/SUBEB Intervention funds. This significant investment demonstrates the government’s prioritization of education and its recognition of the crucial role it plays in societal development. The funds will not only facilitate the construction and equipping of the mega schools but also contribute to broader improvements in the teaching and learning environment across the state’s public schools. This includes ongoing maintenance of school infrastructure, ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of these investments, and the digitization of the basic education sector.
The digitization initiative, currently being implemented in partnership with development partners as a trial run at no cost to the state government, aims to modernize educational resources and enhance the learning experience for students. This partnership reflects a strategic approach to leveraging external resources and expertise to advance the state’s educational goals. The digitization of school materials will provide students with access to contemporary learning resources, promoting digital literacy and preparing them for the demands of a technologically driven world. This forward-thinking approach aligns with global trends in education and positions Ekiti State at the forefront of innovation in the basic education sector.
Complementing the infrastructural and technological advancements, SUBEB is investing significantly in teacher development. The board has secured approval for the training of 4,000 teachers in modern teaching methodologies during the current academic year, a significant increase from the 2,700 teachers trained in the previous session. This commitment to professional development underscores the recognition that well-trained teachers are essential for delivering quality education. The training programs will equip teachers with the latest pedagogical approaches and subject-specific knowledge, empowering them to create engaging and effective learning experiences for their students. This investment in human capital is crucial for ensuring that the improved infrastructure and resources translate into tangible improvements in student learning outcomes.
In addition to the training initiatives, the Ekiti State government has taken steps to recognize and reward the qualifications of its teachers. Following the establishment of the Graduate Teachers’ cadre in public primary schools, 505 teachers with university degrees recruited in 2023 have been upgraded from Grade Level 07 to Grade Level 08. This salary harmonization recognizes the higher level of education and expertise these teachers bring to the classroom, fostering a more professional and motivated teaching force. This policy not only acknowledges the value of higher education but also incentivizes teachers to pursue further professional development, contributing to the overall improvement of the education system in Ekiti State. By investing in both infrastructure and human capital, the state is laying a solid foundation for a brighter educational future for its children.
