Edo State Government, NDDC Distribute 500 U‑Lesson Tablets to Primary, Secondary Schools

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

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‎In a bid to enhancing the educational system the Edo State Government, partnered with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to distribute U-Lesson educational tablets to pupils of Primary and Secondary Schools in the State.

‎The distribution of the U-Lesson educational tablets was held at the New Festival Hall, Government House in Benin City.

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, highlighted the importance of the U-Lesson educational tablets in enhancing pupils’ learning experiences.

She encouraged them to leverage technology to support their education, expressing confidence that they would utilize the tablets effectively to learn and grow.

Mrs. Anani noted that we are living in a digital age, where technology is an integral part of our lives. For you, our children, technology is your best friend. We are here to provide you with tools that will enhance your learning experience. This tablet contains all of your school subjects—Maths, English, Biology, Civic Education, Physical Education, Social Studies, and more—and is designed to supplement, not replace, your schoolwork. Remember to use it to study and learn at home.

‎”When we educate our children and empower our people, we build a stronger foundation for tomorrow’s future. This initiative is aimed at fostering your growth and development. I applaud the dedication and hard work you’ve demonstrated in your studies, and I trust that you will make the most of this opportunity.”

Mrs. Anani reaffirmed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to providing quality education for every child in Edo State. She explained that the Governor envisions a future where every child can access schooling and pursue their chosen career as a professional, or any other path they desire.

She urged parents, care-giver, guardians and teachers to promote a balanced lifestyle for children, encouraging a mix of play, reading, and study to foster holistic development and optimal outcomes.

‎The Coordinator, led a discussion on the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, focusing on digital safety. She educated pupils on protecting themselves from abuse and violence, emphasizing the importance of body safety, consent, and responsible digital behaviour.

She cautioned them on potential online dangers like pedophiles and exploitation, and urged them to prioritize their safety and to report suspicious behaviour to a trusted adult.

‎In his remark, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, represented by the Executive Chairman of the Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE), Barr. (Mrs.) Onomen Briggs, advised the pupils to utilize the tablets responsibly, as they are intended to enhance their learning and growth in the digital age.

He emphasized that the U-Lesson platform provides access to a wealth of knowledge, allowing them to learn new concepts daily, and encouraged them to consistently engage with the platform to improve their understanding of the various subjects.

‎‎Dr. Iyamu advised parents, guardians, and teachers to monitor children’s tablet usage, listen to them, be aware of potential issues, and encourage them to guide children in using the tablets responsibly and not let others misuse or bully them.

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‎The Member representing Edo State on the Board of NDDC, Rt. Hon. Patrick Aisowieren, represented by Mr. Michael Oladepo, highlighted a unique collaboration between NDDC and the State, which he said was made possible by Mrs. Anani’s empathy to benefit school children, parents, and mothers. He added that more collaborations were expected in other fields.

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‎”The importance of education cannot be overemphasized. The relevance and importance of this U-Lesson, it’s multifaceted. It is an app, it is an ICT tool to further strengthen and equip our children to perform at exceptionally well. All that is required with their curriculum is in it”. Rt. Hon. Aisowieren concluded.

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‎The Edo State Chairman of the Senior Secondary Education Board (SSEB), Dr. Rita Erewele, expressed delight that pupils from various schools are beneficiaries of the programme. She congratulated the pupils, adding that the tablets were expected to enhance their academic performance, while urging them to excel in external examinations, with the aim of achieving top ranking nationally.

‎Students from Umelu Primary School, Ologbo Primary School, Okogbo Primary School, Imaguero Primary School, Evbareke Junior Secondary School, Army Day Junior Secondary School, Edo Boys High School, Benin Technical College, Girls Model Secondary School, Egor Senior Secondary School, amongst others, received the tablets with excitement, pledging to utilize it judiciously to enhance their learning experience.