Edo SUBEB Explores Global Best Practices to Drive Education Reforms

By Joy Richardson

Edo State is set to implement innovative reforms in its basic education sector following a strategic engagement in Kigali, Rwanda, led by the Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Barrister Mrs. Onomen Briggs which was held from 3rd to 6th March 2025. Accompanied by board staff member Mr. John Thomas, Mrs. Briggs participated in high-level discussions under the Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) workplan, aimed at identifying globally tested educational strategies that can be adapted to local needs.

Barrister Mrs. Onomen Briggs and the Rwanda DG of Rwanda Basic Education, Dr Nelson Mbarushimana PhD.

A key highlight of the visit was a closed-door session with Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, PhD, Director General of the Rwanda Basic Education Board. The meeting provided an in-depth look at Rwanda’s education model, focusing on structured scripted lessons for teaching consistency, remedial programs to support struggling students, and school feeding schemes designed to improve student retention. These discussions underscored the importance of tailoring global best practices to fit Edo State’s unique educational landscape.

As part of the engagement, the Edo SUBEB delegation also toured select educational facilities in Kigali. The visit provided firsthand exposure to Rwanda’s successful integration of innovative teaching methods, offering practical insights that could inform Edo’s education reforms.

Speaking on the significance of the visit, Mrs. Briggs emphasized that Edo State is committed to leveraging global expertise while ensuring local adaptability. She noted that the insights gained will enhance the BESDA workplan, driving sustainable reforms that improve learning outcomes and expand access to quality education across the state.

Education stakeholders in Edo State have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that the adoption of well-researched, context-sensitive strategies will transform the basic education system.

With this latest move, Edo SUBEB is reinforcing its commitment to progressive, data-driven educational policies that will shape the future of learning in the state.