Digital literacy: Kwara distributes 1,755 computers, devices to 70 public schools

No fewer than 70 public secondary schools across the 16 local government areas of Kwara State are set to benefit from 1,755 computer devices aimed at equipping teachers and students with digital literacy skills.

Under the first phase of the state government’s education intervention programme, each school will receive 25 gadgets.

The project is being implemented by the State Adolescent Girls’ Initiative for Learning and Employment (AGILE) project under the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Ilorin, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said digital literacy was no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s global economy, noting that education remains the bedrock of sustainable development.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Elder Kayode Alabi, AbdulRazaq said the programme further demonstrated the administration’s commitment to transforming education through innovation, technology and strategic investment in human capital.

“The future belongs to those who can leverage technology to solve problems, create opportunities and contribute meaningfully to society. It is for this reason that our administration continues to prioritise investments that improve learning outcomes and prepare our young people for the demands of a rapidly evolving world,” the governor said.

“We are not merely distributing digital devices; we are equipping our children with the tools they need to compete and excel in an increasingly digital and knowledge-driven world.”

He urged the beneficiary schools and students to use the equipment for learning, creativity, innovation and self-development.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, said the AGILE project was designed to improve girls’ access to quality education, enhance learning outcomes and equip them with relevant skills for the future.

Olohungbebe said the distribution represented a substantial investment in the education sector, adding that the facilities would enable teachers and students to integrate technology into teaching and learning, while developing digital competencies, creativity and problem-solving skills needed in today’s world.

According to him, the items to be distributed to the selected schools include 1,755 all-in-one desktop computers, 70 printers, 70 projectors and 70 motorised projector screens.

He said the government had already installed 10kVA solar power systems, internet connectivity and CCTV cameras in each of the schools, in addition to training three teachers per school.

“The state government recognises that digital literacy is now an essential component of quality education. Our children must not only have access to education; they must also acquire the digital skills necessary to thrive in today’s digital world,” he said.

Olohungbebe added that the exercise was ongoing, and commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for continued investment in human capital development towards transforming the education sector.

He called on beneficiary schools and host communities to take ownership of the equipment and ensure that it is used primarily for educational purposes.

Also speaking, the State Coordinator of the Kwara AGILE project, Adeshina Azeez Salami, said the office continued to rely on the support of the state government to thrive, while commending the government for setting the pace in the sector.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of devices to selected schools, including United Secondary School, Ilorin; Government Girls Day Secondary School, Oke-Suna; Government Day Secondary School, Tanke; and St Anthony Secondary School, Ilorin.