NDDC launches distribution of U-lesson educational tablets

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has flagged off the distribution of 50,000 U-Lesson Educational Tablets and Software Initiatives to primary and secondary schools in the Niger Delta, describing it as the largest educational technology investment in Africa.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the NDDC Consultant for the U-Lesson Group, Mr. Sim Shagaya, stated that world affairs were now driven by technology and the NDDC had blazed the trail in the efforts to ensure that Niger Delta youths were not left behind.

Shagaya said the programme represents the largest investment in education technology by any agency, any national government, and sub-national government in sub-Sahara Africa.

“This has never been done before, so as we are enjoying this dramatisation, we have studied Africa carefully and we know that this has not been done anywhere. This type of large-scale intervention has never been done in education in South Africa, Kenya, or anywhere, and it has taken a lot of vision and determination to get to this place,” he said.

He advised the students to make judicious use of the substantial investments to improve their education, adding that the way it was designed, it cannot be used for TikTok or other social media platforms.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said that the agency will continue to support the states under the NDDC in their drive to address educational concerns and the interests of the people of the region.

He said it was part of NDDC’s deliberate efforts and commitment in pursuance of its interventionist mandate in the Niger Delta region.

Represented by Mr. George Nwanne, Director of Education, Health, and Social Services at the agency, Ogbuku said the event underscores the unwavering commitment of the NDDC under the visionary leadership of President Bola Tinubu to the holistic development of the Niger Delta Region.

He said, “The distribution of these educational tools is a testament to the Hope Agenda championed by the President, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC, Senator Asuquo Ekpeyoung, our Board, and the Executive Management of the NDDC.

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“We are dedicated to fostering educational initiatives that promote literacy, numeracy, and lifelong learning, ensuring that the Niger Delta’s youth can compete on an equal footing with their peers globally.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance the learning experience for our students. We are gathered here to flag off the distribution of educational tablets to our schools across the region.

“These tablets are more than just furniture; they represent our commitment to creating a conducive learning environment that fosters academic excellence, creativity, and innovation.

“With these U-Lesson tablets, our students will have a comfortable and dedicated space to learn, study, and grow. They will be able to engage in collaborative learning, share ideas, and build meaningful relationships with their peers.

“In conclusion, all stakeholders are urged to embrace this opportunity with great enthusiasm and optimism. Together, let us harness the power of technology to build a brighter future for the Niger Delta, where every child has the tools and opportunity to succeed.”