As part of efforts to improve access to quality education, 47 million pupils and teachers in Smart Schools across Nigeria will receive free laptops and tablets.

The initiative is expected to be rolled out this year.

This was disclosed at the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and Digital Learning Network in Abuja on Monday.

The Guardian reports that UBEC Smart Schools are special model schools established by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to promote digital learning and 21st-century teaching methods, located in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President, Digital Learning Network, Thomas Lamerna, disclosed that this is at zero cost to both the Federal and state governments.

The 47 million devices, he said, will also receive free data.

“To move this project forward without the federal or state government carrying the cost and without an added expense to the average parent or the average student, we are working with the National Credit Guarantee Company, which has expressed support for the development of the project,” he said.

In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, stated that the initiative marks a significant turning point in bridging the digital divide in Nigeria’s education sector.

She explained that with the provision of laptops and tablets, pupils and teachers will have access to digital textbooks, interactive learning materials, and virtual classrooms, thereby improving teaching and learning outcomes.

Garba noted that the commission will work closely with state governments, school administrators, and relevant stakeholders to ensure proper distribution and effective utilisation of the devices. She added that training programmes will be rolled out for teachers to strengthen their capacity in digital pedagogy, ensuring that the technology translates into real educational gains.

She said: “The whole essence of the partnership is to ensure that we can increase access and improve the quality of education. One of the key aspects is deploying low-cost models, particularly in terms of the computers used by this company, as well as internet connectivity.

“So the government will definitely intervene, whether with financial or technical support. It will ensure that every mother enrols her children in school and will provide the necessary technology to access digital learning experience”.

She commended the Digital Learning Network for the gesture, stressing that the partnership aligns with the Federal Government’s