Aisha Garba, the newly appointed Executive Secretary (ES) of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has outlined her policy priorities, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in education.
Garba, a seasoned senior education specialist with the World Bank, assumed office in December 2024, succeeding Hamid Bobboyi. Speaking during her inaugural address in Abuja, she announced UBEC’s commitment to collaborating with states to domesticate the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Act. This initiative aims to make school infrastructure more accessible for children with disabilities.
Highlighting the challenges in Nigeria’s basic education sector, Garba cited alarming statistics. Over 17 million children remain out of school due to systemic barriers, while 48 million of the 64 million children aged 5-14 are categorized as learning deficient. Drawing from the World Bank Capital Index, she noted that Nigeria’s students score an average of 309 on the harmonized test score scale, far below the advanced attainment benchmark of 625.
Garba also shared insights from UNICEF, revealing a primary school completion rate of 59% for boys and 51% for girls in 2020. Secondary school completion rates are even more concerning, with 42% for boys and 36% for girls. Additionally, higher education access remains limited, as only 500,000 candidates are admitted annually from a pool of 2 million UTME applicants.
Under her leadership, UBEC plans to enhance state-level uptake and utilization of matching grants through partnerships and strategic engagements with governors.
Garba assured of the UBEC’s commitment to prioritize teacher training in innovative pedagogical methods and up-to-date technology to improve teaching quality. She promised to ensure the provision of instructional materials for the refined basic school curriculum.
She added that the UBEC will expand access to early childhood and pre-primary education by collaborating with communities, private organizations, and other stakeholders.
Garba’s extensive experience includes consulting roles with organizations such as the World Bank, the UK Department for International Development, and BOND-UK. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and Computer Studies from Petra American University, Jordan, and a Master’s in International Development from the University of Birmingham, UK.
Join Inclusive News Network WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You. Click HereÂ