UBEC plans review of 20-year-old UBE Act
The Universal Basic Education Commission said it will review aspects of the Universal Basic Education Act of 2004 that are hindering its smooth operation.
The Act was enacted 20 years ago.
Speaking in Lagos on Friday at the opening of a two-day retreat for the Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary) with the theme, ‘Basic Education Implementation in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward,’ Executive Secretary, UBEC, Dr Hamid Bobboyi, explained that due to societal developments and changes since 2004, the Act has become overdue for review.
He said, “We will share with the committee aspects of the Universal Basic Education Act, 2004 and Other Related Matter, which in our view, constitute an encumbrance to the smooth implementation of the UBE programme.
“Having been enacted in 2004, that is, 20 years ago, and given the developments and changes that have taken place in the society since then, it is our view that the Act is overdue for review.”
He stressed the need for the education system to address the country’s challenges.
“Our education should respond to the needs and aspirations of our country, and there is no better way to do this than being abreast of local and global developments.”
Former Ogun State Governor and serving senator for Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, who chaired the event, called for increased funding, tech integration, community engagement, and resource allocation for basic education.
“I believe UBEC has thought deeply before organising this. There is a need to implement technology integration, community engagement, and sensitisation and to gain more support from international organisations and NGOs.
“We need to begin decentralising by giving autonomy to Local Government Areas, as the state government cannot reach all primary schools. Additionally, curriculum reforms, infrastructure improvements, teacher training, recruitment, and retention are essential,” he said.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary), Sen. Lawal Usman, added that equal and adequate education was crucial for development.
He stated that it was the responsibility of every government to provide free education and urged parents and guardians to ensure that every child received an education.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbo Salu-Hudeyin, said, “As we embark on these deliberations, let us be guided by our shared vision of a Nigeria where every child has access to quality basic education.This retreat is a wake up call to action. More positive and forward-looking action.
“We must engage in open dialogues, share best practices, and develop actionable plans that will drive significant improvements in our education system.”
