UBEC Set To Review 2004 Act, Says Executive Secretary b

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) is set to review the Universal Basic Education Act 2004 and other related matters with a view to tackling grey areas in basic education.

The executive secretary of the commission, Dr Hamid Bobboyi made this known yesterday at a 2-day retreat for the Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary).

Boboyi who spoke on the theme, “Basic Education Implementation in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward” noted that certain aspects of the UBE Act 2004 are hampering smooth implementation of the Universal Basic Education programme,

The executive secretary stated that it has become necessary to review the Act given the changes that have taken place since its enactment in 2004, adding that the education system ought to respond to the needs and aspirations of the nation, noting that it was necessary to be abreast of best global practices.

Former Ogun State governor and serving Senator for Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, who doubled as the chairman of the event called for the support of the National Assembly towards improved funding for education, infrastructural development, training of teachers and decentralisation of local government and schools for efficiency.

He advocated support for girl-child education, children with disabilities and access to technology in education.

Chairman, Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary), Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, said that equal and adequate education was key development, saying that it is the responsibility of every government to provide free education.

He urged parents and guardians to ensure every child is educated.

In his remarks, Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the secretary to the state government, Bimbo Salu-Hundeyin noted that many schools in the country lack necessary facilities for conducive learning environment.

Sanwo-Olu described the retreat as a veritable opportunity to strategise on how to enhance infrastructural development, mobilise resources and ensure that every child learns in a safe and conducive environment.