Nigeria Launches Nationwide Learning Assessment Initiative

The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated a nationwide learning assessment to tackle the worsening education crisis in the country. Launched by the Federal Ministry of Education, under the leadership of Dr. Tunji Alausa, the assessment aims to measure pupil literacy, numeracy, and cognitive skills.

This effort is part of a broader strategy to implement evidence-based reforms in the education sector. The assessment will cover various educational levels, including three primary schools, five junior secondary schools, and two senior secondary schools, evaluating students in English language, mathematics, basic science, and non-cognitive skills.

Dr. Alausa noted that Nigeria has not conducted a national learning assessment since the last exercise by UBEC in 2023, with previous assessments occurring every three years. The initiative aims to establish benchmarks for learning outcomes and address the high levels of learning poverty, with many Nigerian children unable to read appropriate texts by age 10.

The Federal Ministry of Education plans to harmonize different assessment models into a single national framework to ensure consistent measurement of educational progress.