In a bid to transform Nigeria's education system, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) have introduced two smart education programmes for teachers.

A six-month Smart Education Primer Course and a one-year Postgraduate Diploma in Smart Education (PGDSE) are now part of UBEC’s 2-year Teacher Internship Scheme, aimed at equipping educators with essential digital skills.

Announcing the initiative at the UBEC Digital Resource Centre (DRC) on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 in Abuja, Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, Executive Secretary of the commission, highlighted the importance of this collaboration.

Bobboyi emphasised that the programme was designed to enhance teaching and learning by integrating modern digital tools.

"Through the Postgraduate Diploma in Smart Education, we are preparing teachers to create globally competitive learners while providing them with recognised certification," he stated.

The executive secretary also acknowledged NOUN’s critical role in this partnership, adding that without its support, this would not have been possible.

On his part, the NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, reinforced the significance of the partnership, stating that the collaboration will revolutionise teacher training in Nigeria.

Peters explained that the programme covers essential areas like digital literacy, pedagogical innovation, data-driven instruction, and cybersecurity.

"We are committed to providing the infrastructure and support necessary for the success of this partnership," the VC said.

Coordinator, UBEC Digital Resource Centre, Prof. Bashir Galadanchi, explained that the PGDSE will serve as an equivalent to the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), ensuring that teachers receive comprehensive training in smart education.

Galadanchi emphasised that the programme's reach would extend beyond interns, as it would offer a robust educational framework for educators across the country.

The Dean, Faculty of Education at NOUN, Prof. Bamikole Ogunleye, listed the course's interactive features, stating that educators will have access to platforms like Zoom and educational management systems, allowing real-time engagement with course materials and peers.

Ogunleye also pointed out that digital resources, such as instructional videos and discussion forums, will be available to students throughout the programme to ensure a well-rounded learning experience.