Education
Governor Mbah’s smart green schools: A revolutionary leap amidst public scrutiny
DDM News

Governor Peter Mbah’s administration in Enugu State has embarked on an ambitious educational reform through the establishment of Smart Green Schools.
Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that this initiative aims to modernize the state’s education system by integrating technology and experiential learning into the curriculum.
However, while the project has garnered praise for its forward-thinking approach, it has also faced criticism regarding its implementation and potential impact.
The Smart Green Schools are designed to replace traditional rote learning methods with experiential learning, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
Students will have access to interactive digital boards, tablets, and computers, immersing them in fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality.
Additionally, each student is promised a free, nutritious daily meal, and the school environment is planned to be conducive to both teaching and learning.
As of January 2025, 30 out of the proposed 260 Smart Green Schools have been completed and equipped.
These schools were among the projects commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his visit to Enugu earlier this year.
The administration has set an ambitious target to have many more of these schools ready for student enrollment by September 2025.
Despite the project’s innovative vision, it has not been without its detractors.
Critics have raised concerns about the feasibility of the project’s timeline and the quality of construction.
Some contractors have cited challenges such as adverse weather conditions, difficult terrain, and logistical constraints as reasons for delays.
In response, Governor Mbah has urged contractors to expedite their work, emphasizing that the government has provided adequate funding and expects timely delivery.
He has also warned that delays will not be tolerated and that outstanding contractors will be rewarded with further contracts.
Another point of contention is the selection criteria for the locations of these schools.
The government has stipulated that proposed sites must be central and easily accessible, free from disputes, have flat topography, and be large enough to accommodate all necessary facilities.
Communities that fail to provide suitable land have been warned that the projects will not commence in their areas.
This has led to concerns that some communities may be left without access to these modern educational facilities.
Furthermore, Governor Mbah has been vocal about the shortcomings of Nigeria’s current educational system, stating that it contributes to the country’s underdevelopment and high unemployment rates.
He argues that universities are failing to produce innovative ideas and that a shift towards experiential learning in primary and secondary education is essential for preparing students to navigate a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has commended the initiative, describing it as a bold and strategic move in a country where basic education has suffered serious neglect.
UBEC’s endorsement suggests that the Smart Green Schools could serve as a model for other states seeking to revitalize their education systems.
In conclusion, Governor Peter Mbah’s Smart Green Schools project represents a bold attempt to revolutionize education in Enugu State.
While the initiative has been lauded for its innovative approach, it must address the criticisms and challenges it faces to ensure successful implementation and sustainability.
The administration’s commitment to integrating technology and experiential learning into the curriculum has the potential to prepare students for a bright future, but careful attention must be paid to execution to fully realize this vision.
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