FME, Japan Support ICT Capacity-Building Initiative Benefiting FUE Zaria, Other Teacher Training Institutions

The Federal University of Education (FUE), Zaria, has emerged as one of the beneficiaries of a major ICT capacity-building initi...

The Federal University of Education (FUE), Zaria, has emerged as one of the beneficiaries of a major ICT capacity-building initiative supported by the Government of Japan and coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Education to strengthen teacher education and promote inclusive learning across Nigeria.

Representing the university at the official handover ceremony of ICT equipment and instructional materials in Abuja on Tuesday, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Suleiman Balarabe, joined the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’idu Ahmad, and heads of beneficiary teacher training institutions from across the country.

The programme, organised by the Federal Ministry of Education in partnership with UNESCO’s International Institute for Capacity Building in Africa (UNESCO-IICBA), the African Union International Centre for Girls and Women’s Education in Africa (AU/CIEFFA), and the Government of Japan, is designed to enhance teacher capacity through the integration of digital technologies in teaching and learning.

Under the project, titled “Capacity-Building of Teachers to Promote Continuous and Inclusive Access to Safe and Quality Education for Girls in West Africa,” selected federal and state colleges of education are being equipped with ICT tools and learning materials to improve instructional delivery and expand access to quality education.

The initiative is expected to strengthen digital learning environments, enhance teachers’ professional competencies, and promote inclusive education, particularly for girls and other vulnerable learners. 

Key components of the project include mobile-based learning support for female teachers and school leaders, accelerated learning programmes for out-of-school children, psychosocial support services, life-skills training, and the creation of safe learning spaces.

Prof. Balarabe attended the ceremony alongside the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Malam Abdullahi Abdulkadir; the Director of ICT, Dr. Ayotunde Alaba Fadele; and Engr. Abubakar Hassan.

The intervention underscores ongoing efforts by the Federal Ministry of Education and its international partners to leverage technology in advancing teacher development and improving educational outcomes across Nigeria.