Kwara State Government on Friday flagged off the distribution of digital devices to 70 selected secondary schools across all 16 local government areas of the state.
The procured devices comprise 1,755 all-in-one desktop computers, 70 printers, 70 projectors and 70 motorised projector screens. This is in addition to the 10KVA solar power system, internet connectivity, CCTV cameras already installed in each of these schools, and training of three teachers per school.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Ilorin, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq said that the initiative, being implemented under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, is designed to improve access to safe and quality secondary education for adolescent girls while creating a more inclusive, technology-driven, and conducive learning environment that benefits all learners.
Represented by the deputy governor, Mr. Kayode Alabi, the governor said that the initiative was aimed at equipping children with the tools they need to compete and excel in an increasingly digital and knowledge-driven world, adding that it is not merely the distribution of digital devices.
“It is generally acknowledged that education remains the bedrock of
sustainable development. In today’s global economy, digital literacy is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity”.
The governor, who encouraged students to make the best use of the opportunity, charged them to allow the devices to become instruments for learning, creativity, innovation, and self-development.
“To our school principals and teachers, I urge you to ensure that these devices are effectively integrated into classroom teaching and learning while maintaining the highest standards of accountability and proper maintenance. These are valuable public assets, and their sustainability depends on our collective responsibility”.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, said that the state government recognises that digital literacy is now an essential component of quality education, adding that, “Our children must not only have access to education; they must also acquire the digital skills necessary to thrive in today’s digital world”.
The commissioner called on the management of all beneficiary schools and the host communities to take ownership of the equipment and ensure that the materials are used primarily for the intended educational purposes.
He also urged the teachers to embrace technology as a powerful tool for improving classroom instruction, while encouraging students to make the most of this opportunity.
“To our girls in particular, I say: these devices are your gateway to a world of knowledge and opportunity. Learn, explore, create and innovate”.
In his speech, the Kwara AGILE project coordinator, Adesina Salami, commended Governor Abdulrazaq for his continued commitment to strengthening education and human capital development in the state.
He described the governor’s support to the AGILE Project as remarkable, adding that his presence at the symbolic flag-off “demonstrates importance that the Government of Kwara State attaches to the successful implementation of the AGILE Project and, more broadly, to the transformation of education through technology”.