Victoria Mgbanwa
The Universal Basic Education Commission has said it will review the Universal Basic Education Act of 2004 as it is over 20 years it was enacted and it is well overdue for review.
The Executive Secretary, UBEC, Dr Hamid Bobboyi, emphasised at the opening of a two-day retreat for the Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary) in Lagos.
He stated that there is a need for educational system to face it’s challenge by being abreast of local and global developments.
“We will share with the committee aspects of the Universal Basic Education Act, 2004 and Other Related Matter, which in our view, constitute an encumbrance to the smooth implementation of the UBE programme.
“Having been enacted in 2004, that is, 20 years ago, and given the developments and changes that have taken place in the society since then, it is our view that the Act is overdue for review.”
“Our education should respond to the needs and aspirations of our country, and there is no better way to do this than being abreast of local and global developments.”Bobboyi said.
Speaking on gaining support from international organizations, The Former Ogun State Governor and serving senator for Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, said that the government need to implement technology integration, community engagement, and sensitisation and to also begin decentralising Local Government Areas so as to reach all primary schools in the states.
He said, “I believe UBEC has thought deeply before organising this. There is a need to implement technology integration, community engagement, and sensitisation and to gain more support from international organisations and NGOs.
“We need to begin decentralising by giving autonomy to Local Government Areas, as the state government cannot reach all primary schools. Additionally, curriculum reforms, infrastructure improvements, teacher training, recruitment, and retention are essential.”
The Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbo Salu-Hudeyin who represented The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said, “As we embark on these deliberations, let us be guided by our shared vision of a Nigeria where every child has access to quality basic education.This retreat is a wake up call to action. More positive and forward-looking action.
“We must engage in open dialogues, share best practices, and develop actionable plans that will drive significant improvements in our education system.”
