Learning is timeless. Deep learning and the application of such acquired knowledge in innovative ways have propelled nations into advancement and pre-eminence.
While we acknowledge some concerted effort in many different areas of endeavour, Africa has largely struggled with myriad challenges that have limited advancement in learning and innovation. In the last few years, we have begun to experience the beginnings of disruptions and innovation occasioned by the digital revolution. Covid-19 arrived the scene in 2020 and accelerated the need for digital tools and inclusion.
The digital divide between the public and private schools therefore became even more apparent with the lockdown mode effected the world over. While a significant number of elite and urban private schools went into digital mode, a lot of the other private and public schools were left in the cold unable to muster enough resources, know-how, will, or capacity to effect digital learning. Ownership of devices, access to data, know-how for the teachers and school owners etc. precluded both schools and parents from adopting a learning solution for the period.
We acknowledge the efforts of Lagos and other State Governments for setting up abridged solutions during the lockdown period. In order not to further widen the learning & digital gap already in place, there is an urgent need for innovative and seamless access to digital tools for all public schools, rural or urban.
We, therefore, call on all stakeholders (including the Organized Private Sector, Faith-Based Organizations, etc.) to rally and partner with Government to achieve critical mass in four key areas:
- Teacher Training
- Physical Infrastructure
- Digital Infrastructure (Including access to data/wifi)
- Curriculum/Learning Content
Learning… Is essential! Crucial! Vital to the success of any nation. Welcome to the 4th edition of the Lagos Teacher’s Conference; Learning and Innovation: Bridging the Digital Divide.
Thank you.
Dr. Femi Orawusi
Program Coordinator
Edu-Aid Global Initiative
