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The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has underscored the critical need for integrating digital literacy and skills into Nigeria’s formal education system to better equip citizens for post-graduation challenges.
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Speaking at a Stakeholders Dialogue and High-Level Policy Committee meeting organized by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) in Abuja, Abdullahi emphasized that achieving 95% digital literacy by 2030, as mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requires a collaborative effort.
Abdullahi noted that NITDA alone cannot achieve this ambitious goal, aiming for a midterm target of 70% digital literacy by 2027. He stressed the importance of partnerships in developing and implementing digital literacy curricula across all levels of formal education in Nigeria.
“We believe that together, we can build the digital literacy and skills curricula needed in our formal education system,” Abdullahi said.
Supporting this initiative, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Sununu Yusuf, highlighted the rapid advancement of technology and its impact on various sectors, including agriculture and health. He emphasized the necessity for Nigeria’s education system to adapt to these changes to avoid being left behind.
“Technology is reshaping the world, and our children’s education must lay a foundation that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-protection,” Dr. Sununu stated.
Abdullahi further explained that many professions are at risk of being overtaken by automation, making digital skills essential for future employability. He emphasized the importance of equipping children with these skills to maintain cognitive abilities and promote the responsible use of technology.
Dr. Yusuf also highlighted the current administration’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s educational challenges, including curriculum reform. He revealed that the administration’s Marshall Plan for Education for the Community of Hope (2024-2027) is a comprehensive, action-oriented roadmap aimed at overhauling the education system to ensure it contributes effectively to the nation’s development goals.
The plan prioritizes curriculum review and renewal at all levels, reflecting the government’s dedication to creating a functional education system that supports Nigeria’s overall growth and prosperity.
