National Wire About Nigerians, Nigerian Business and Other Stories
By Peace Temitope Isaac
Recently, the Katsina State government introduced the use of tablet device to assist teachers in primary schools across two Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state.
As someone who has lived and studied in Katsina State, I must commend the governor and SUBEB for the introduction of 20,000 tablets into the classrooms to assist students in learning.
The initiative is a bold and forward-thinking step towards tackling learning poverty. The idea of using technology to make teachers’ work easier and keep pupils engaged is commendable.
However, I believe the program should not be limited only to the primary school pupils. This is because secondary school students face the same learning challenges and should also benefit, especially those in the boarding schools.
Extending the program to more LGAs is equally important, as the two LGAs enjoying the facilities presently cannot solve a state-wide problem.
Beyond tablets, other issues need urgent attention. The learning environment in many schools is poor, with challenges in sanitation, facilities, and feeding in boarding schools. If not addressed, these problems will undermine any progress made with technology.
The quality of food provided to boarding students in particular, must be monitored to avoid cases of food poisoning or malnutrition. Of course the students would function well if the necessary nutrients are present in their daily meals at the right proportions.
While tablets help teachers reduce time spent preparing notes and make lessons interactive, challenges such as poor electricity supply, lack of teacher training, weak maintenance systems, and limited localized content remain. Without solutions to power issues with probably the use of solar power system to supper the equipment , the efforts or the state government may not achieve the see desired results.
Also, continuous teacher training, and proper monitoring of learning outcomes are necessary to achieve the intended impact.
Distributing tablets is a good start, but it must be part of a bigger strategy that invests in teachers, improves school facilities, and ensures equity across rural and urban communities. With sincerity and wider coverage, this initiative can truly transform education in Katsina State. Without it, we risk another well-meaning project that fades too soon.
*Peace Temitope Isaac who had her secondary education in Katsina State, is a Mass Communication student at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu and an intern at the Media Career Development Network, Lagos.
