U.K. extends education programme from North to South-West

U.K. Government, through the British High Commission, has launched Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) programme in the South-West region of the country.

The event, which held, yesterday, in Lagos, was a collaboration with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission and the SEED Care and Support Foundation.

PLANE, a seven-year education initiative funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, aims to improve learning outcomes at the basic education level across Nigeria.

Having initially focused on northern states since its 2021 launch, the programme is now expanding to the Southwest, working closely with the DAWN Commission.

The British High Commission’s Senior Education Adviser, Ian Attfield, said that PLANE would engage affordable private community schools in the region, providing education access to low-income and marginalised children.

The programme will also collaborate with Lagos State’s Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, building on previous partnerships such as ESSPIN and DEEPEN.

Deputy British High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, noted the UK’s commitment to improving education in Nigeria, stating: “The expansion of PLANE’s footprint to the Southwest will enhance quality and affordable basic education.”

Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, welcomed the initiative, expressing the state’s readiness to collaborate.

Director General of DAWN Commission, Dr Seye Oyeleye, also pledged support for the programme’s objectives.

PLANE aims to create a more inclusive, safe, and effective education system in Nigeria, working with federal and state leaders, education providers, and communities across the country.