The Edo State Government has strengthened its drive to enhance education quality across the State by partnering with the Niger Delta Development Commission to distribute U-Lesson educational tablets to pupils in Primary, Junior and Senior Secondary Schools. The distribution took place at the New Festival Hall of the Government House in Benin City, where pupils, teachers, and government officials gathered to witness what the State described as a step toward improved digital learning.
During the event, the Coordinator in the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, explained that the U-Lesson educational tablets will play a major role in improving how pupils learn, both in school and at home. She encouraged pupils to embrace technology as a helpful companion in their academic journey, noting that learning tools like this can make studying easier and more interactive.
According to Mrs. Anani, “Today, we’re living in a digital age, and technology is an integral part of our lives. For you, our children, technology is your best friend. We’re here to provide you with tools that will enhance your learning experience. This tablet contains all your school subjects including Maths, English, Biology, Civic Education, Physical Education, Social Studies, and more. It’s designed to supplement your schoolwork, not replace it. Remember to use it to study and learn at home.” She added that empowering children through education helps build a stronger foundation for the future, stressing that she believes the pupils will make good use of the opportunity.
She also reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, to deliver quality education for every child in Edo State. She said the Governor’s plan is to ensure that every child has access to the right learning tools to pursue any career path they desire. Mrs. Anani encouraged parents and teachers to support children by helping them balance play, reading, and study so they can grow in a healthy and productive way.
As part of the programme, Mrs. Anani held a discussion session with pupils on the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, focusing on digital safety. She educated them on how to stay safe online and offline, emphasizing body safety, consent, and the need to report any suspicious behaviour. She warned them about potential online risks, including pedophiles and exploitation, and urged them to always prioritize their safety by speaking to a trusted adult whenever they encounter something uncomfortable.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, was represented by the Executive Chairman of the Board for Technical and Vocational Education, Barr. (Mrs.) Onomen Briggs. He advised pupils to use the tablets responsibly, stating that the goal is to help them learn better in the digital era. He noted that the U-Lesson platform gives them access to a wide range of knowledge, allowing them to study new topics daily. He encouraged them to stay consistent in using the platform to strengthen their understanding of various subjects.
Dr. Iyamu also advised parents, guardians, and teachers to be mindful of how children use the tablets. He stated that they should listen to the children, be aware of any issues, and guide them in proper usage, especially by preventing others from misusing the tablets or bullying them through them.
The Member representing Edo State on the Board of NDDC, Rt. Hon. Patrick Aisowieren, represented by Mr. Michael Oladepo, described the collaboration between NDDC and Edo State as significant and beneficial. He said the partnership was made possible due to the empathy and commitment of Mrs. Anani, who ensured that children, parents, and mothers benefited from the initiative. He added that more collaborations were expected in other sectors.
He stated, “The importance of education cannot be overemphasized. The relevance and importance of this U-Lesson, it’s multifaceted. It is an app, it is an ICT tool to further strengthen and equip our children to perform exceptionally well. All that is required with their curriculum is in it. All that is required is for them to activate it and it takes them further and faster in their lectures, in their study, for the purpose of coming tops in their exams and have all it entails for them to come better.”
The Chairman of the Senior Secondary Education Board, Dr. Rita Erewele, expressed happiness that pupils across different educational levels were benefiting from the programme. She said this shows that leaders in the State are committed to investing in education. She congratulated the pupils and said the tablets would help improve their academic performance. She also urged them to aim for excellence in external examinations so that Edo State can achieve strong national rankings.
Pupils from several schools, including Umelu Primary School, Ologbo Primary School, Okogbo Primary School, Imaguero Primary School, Evbareke Junior Secondary School, Army Day Junior Secondary School, Edo Boys High School, Benin Technical College, Girls Model Secondary School, and Egor Senior Secondary School, received the tablets with joy. Many of them expressed excitement and pledged to use the devices to improve their learning experience.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomole, the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Mrs. Nimata Umar Ikhilor, and the All Progressive Congress Women Leader, Mrs. Betty Okoebor.
