Oyo State and UNICEF Launch Nigeria Learning Passport Initiative

The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and several private sector stakeholders, inaugurated the Nigeria Learning Passport in Ibadan. Celine Lafoucriere, UNICEF Chief of Field Office in Lagos, praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his commitment to quality education, noting the recruitment of 5,000 new educators to utilize the digital platform.

The Nigeria Learning Passport offers access to thousands of curriculum-aligned lessons in Mathematics, English, and Science, available online or offline on mobile devices. Airtel is covering data expenses, allowing free access for users.

The initiative, originally developed to maintain educational continuity during COVID-19 school closures, has become essential for improving educational systems. It involves technology from Microsoft, funding from the Global Partnership for Education, and infrastructure support from IHS Towers.

Lafoucriere emphasized the need for state officials to focus on the educational needs of children in rural areas, particularly young girls. Governor Makinde, represented by Segun Olayiwola, described the initiative as a significant advancement in the state's educational commitment.