Paragraph 1: Ekiti State’s Commitment to Socially Relevant Education
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to education policies meticulously crafted to address societal needs and furnish students with practical skills to tackle real-world challenges. This commitment underscores the governor’s belief in education as a catalyst for development and growth, aligning with his administration’s prioritization of human capital development as a cornerstone of progress. The focus is not merely on achieving literacy and numeracy but on empowering individuals to become effective solution providers capable of contributing meaningfully to the state’s and nation’s advancement.
Paragraph 2: Harnessing Smart Technology for Enhanced Learning
Central to Governor Oyebanji’s education strategy is the strategic integration of smart technology. This forward-looking approach aims to equip students with essential skills, cultivate critical thinking, and foster creativity, thereby preparing them for the demands of a rapidly evolving world. The administration recognizes the transformative potential of technology in education and seeks to leverage it to create dynamic learning environments that nurture innovation and problem-solving abilities. By embracing smart technology, Ekiti State aims to position its students at the forefront of technological advancements and empower them to become active participants in the global knowledge economy.
Paragraph 3: South Korean Partnership and the Smart School Project
The governor’s commitment to educational advancement has attracted international collaboration, exemplified by the partnership with the South Korean government on the Smart School Project. A delegation led by Koika Deputy Country Director, Mr. Baik Ki-Hyyn, visited Ekiti State to conduct a comprehensive survey of the project, highlighting the state’s proactive engagement in leveraging global expertise to enhance its education system. Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude for South Korea’s support, emphasizing the significance of the partnership in furthering the state’s educational goals.
Paragraph 4: Ekiti State’s Recognition as an Education Hub
Ekiti State holds a distinguished position as one of the most educated states in Nigeria. Governor Oyebanji acknowledges this legacy and underscores his administration’s responsibility to maintain and elevate this standing. Education is considered the state’s primary industry, reflecting its deep-rooted commitment to knowledge and human capital development. The governor’s emphasis on education aligns with the state’s historical reputation for academic excellence and underscores the belief that education is fundamental to progress and prosperity.
Paragraph 5: Commendation and Future Collaboration on the Smart School Project
The head of the South Korean delegation, Mr. Baik Ki-Hyyn, commended Governor Oyebanji for his visionary leadership in advancing education through innovative policies. Ekiti State’s exemplary performance in the Smart School Project, launched in 2021, has earned it recognition and praise from its international partners. Mr. Ki-Hyyn expressed the South Korean government’s eagerness to support the second phase of the project, which aims to expand its reach to underserved and rural communities, ensuring equitable access to quality education across the state.
Paragraph 6: Expanding the Reach of the Smart School Project
The second phase of the Smart School Project, undertaken in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEC), aims to build upon the successes of the initial phase. This involves enhancing the capacity of existing schools and extending the benefits of the project to underserved and rural areas. This strategic expansion demonstrates the commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to quality education for all children in Ekiti State, regardless of their location or socioeconomic background. The project’s focus on capacity building and expanding its reach aligns with the broader goal of fostering a robust and inclusive education system that empowers all learners to reach their full potential.
