Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji reaffirmed his commitment to transforming education through innovation and global partnerships.
He met a South Korean delegation led by KOICA Deputy Director Baik Ki-Hyun to assess the Smart School Project’s progress.
This collaborative initiative, backed by South Korea, KOICA, and Nigeria’s UBEC, integrates technology into curricula to nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It aims to equip students for 21st-century global challenges through hands-on learning.
Governor Oyebanji praised the partnership, stating, “Our talks reinforced our joint focus on education beyond literacy and numeracy.” He stressed Ekiti’s goal to empower youth with creativity and practical expertise.
He emphasized the need to create environments where students can master leadership, innovation, and competitiveness. “Smart education drives sustainable development,” he said, connecting this idea to Ekiti’s socio-economic vision.
The delegation’s visit, meanwhile, underscores international recognition of Ekiti’s educational advancements. This project could serve as a model for other Nigerian states pursuing tech-driven academic reforms.
In addition, Oyebanji pledged to integrate traditional teaching with digital tools, ensuring that youth acquire globally relevant competencies. “Today’s preparedness defines tomorrow’s success,” he asserted.
Furthermore, during discussions, both parties examined ways to expand infrastructure and improve teacher training.
The governor pledged sustained funding to modernize classrooms and update pedagogical strategies statewide.
In turn, Mr. Baik commended Ekiti’s proactive governance, noting KOICA’s readiness to share technical expertise. He praised the project’s alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (quality education).
The visit concluded with mutual optimism about the initiative’s impact. Stakeholders agreed to progress, ensuring transparency and adaptability to emerging educational needs.
By prioritizing student-centered policies, Ekiti aims to become a Nigerian hub for tech-fluent graduates. This aligns with broader national goals to reduce skills gaps.
Critics, however, urge caution, stressing the need for accountability in fund allocation. Civil society groups demand audits to prevent mismanagement amid rapid implementation.
Parents and teachers have welcomed the project, citing improved student engagement in pilot schools. “My child now solves math puzzles digitally,” shared one mother in Ado-Ekiti.
Yet challenges persist, including unstable power supply and limited internet access in rural zones. The state plans solar-powered hubs and partnerships with telecom firms to address these.
Looking ahead, Oyebanji’s team will launch coding boot camps and AI workshops in 2024. These programs target 10,000 students annually, prioritizing girls and underserved communities.
Globally, South Korea’s education model—ranked third worldwide for technical proficiency—offers a blueprint.
Ekiti’s adaptation includes localized content on climate action and agro-tech.
As the partnership evolves, cross-cultural exchanges between Nigerian and Korean students will deepen. Such initiatives aim to foster global citizenship and cross-border problem-solving networks.
Ultimately, Ekiti’s bold reforms could redefine Nigeria’s educational landscape, proving that strategic alliances and tech integration unlock youth potential.