The Federal Government has announced plans to remove data charges for millions of Nigerian students who use approved educational platforms as part of efforts to expand access to digital learning.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the initiative on Thursday during the launch of the Initiative for Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content in Nigeria.
Alausa said the programme would ensure that the cost of internet access does not prevent students from benefiting from quality educational resources.
He said the initiative, introduced under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, was aimed at removing one of the major barriers to digital education in Nigeria.
“This initiative goes beyond connectivity. It is about putting learning within reach of children who may otherwise be unable to afford the data required to access it,” the minister said.
He explained that poverty, location and poor access to traditional educational facilities should not prevent Nigerian children from accessing learning opportunities.
According to him, a smartphone, tablet or computer can serve as a classroom and library when the cost of accessing educational materials is removed.
The initiative comes as Nigeria continues to face serious challenges in the education sector, including a wide digital gap that has left many children and young people without reliable access to learning.
UNICEF has previously reported that millions of Nigerian children are out of school, while poor internet connectivity, inadequate electricity and limited digital skills continue to affect access to online education, especially in rural areas.