UK-funded education programme seeks media collaboration
An education programme funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, partnership for learning for all in Nigeria has called on the media to support its efforts to advance education for all citizens in Nigeria.
The programme, a seven-year initiative that began in 2021, aims to support the Nigerian government in improving learning outcomes in the basic education subsector.
Speaking at a media parley organised in commemoration of the International Day of Education 2025 on Wednesday, Senior Education Adviser at the British High Commission, Ian Attfield highlighted the programme’s impact.
He stated that, through its transformative learning approach, PLANE has reached over one million learners and 10,000 teachers with foundational learning packages in its target states including Kaduna, Kano, and Jigawa.
“PLANE is a major UK investment, partnering with Nigeria to improve foundational reading and numeracy skills to address the learning crisis. By working together with the media—a powerful ally in promoting transparency and accountability—Nigeria and the UK can be held jointly accountable to ensure all girls and boys have access to quality, inclusive education,” Attfield said.
In line with the International Day of Education theme, “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” Attfield emphasised the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence and technology in education.
He noted that AI, when adopted through an inclusive approach, can significantly enhance learning outcomes, particularly for underserved communities and persons with disabilities.
He also commended the Federal Ministry of Education for introducing eLearn, a centralized digital platform providing high-quality, curriculum-aligned resources for learners and teachers from basic to tertiary levels.
The Deputy National Team Lead of PLANE, Sam Achimugu underscored the pressing need for more inclusive, equitable, and innovative approaches to learning in Nigeria.
He called on the media to play a crucial role in driving policy awareness, advocacy, and implementation.
“PLANE looks to the media as vital partners in amplifying its mission and mobilizing collective action. In the states where we work, we have recorded progress in addressing systemic challenges and promoting innovative learning solutions. However, for improved education outcomes nationally, there must be continuous advocacy on access and quality,” Achimugu said.
