By Omoruyi Patricia Osayomore
In recent years, Edo State has been garnering global recognition for its efforts to improve learning outcomes in its schools. With a population of over 5 million people, Edo is one of Nigeria’s most populous states, and in the last 6 years, it has been working to ensure that its citizens have access to quality education that equips them with the skills they need to succeed in life anywhere they find themselves.
One of the key factors behind Edo’s success in improving learning outcomes has been its commitment to teacher training and support. The state government has invested heavily in training teachers in modern teaching techniques and technologies and has also provided them with the necessary resources to improve the quality of their teaching.
In addition to teacher training, Edo has implemented several initiatives to improve student learning outcomes. For example, the state has a flagship programme called EdoBEST, which stands for Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation. This program in the last five years has focused on improving the quality of teaching and learning in primary schools across the State, with a particular emphasis on literacy and numeracy skills. Essentially, EdoBEST was formed to ensure that children of school age in Edo State, irrespective of where they are, get the same global standard education to give them a chance at thriving in life. EdoBEST has been successful in improving learning outcomes for learners and has been recognised both nationally and internationally for its impact.
Another initiative that has contributed to Edo’s success in improving learning outcomes is the state’s focus on technology. Edo has been at the forefront of using technology to enhance the learning experience for students, with initiatives such as the EdoBEST @ Home, Edo Digital Teaching, and Learning Initiative. This program provides students with access to digital devices and resources, as well as training and support for teachers on how to use technology in their teaching.
EdoBEST has a 2.0 version through which secondary education and vocational education are being reenacted to provide the the manpower required to turn Edo into a production hub.
Like the State Governor said, the programme would have missed the mark if the recruiting was not spot on. The appointment of Dr Joan Oviawe as the first Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and later made commissioner of Education set the foundation for the milestones recorded in Edo State’s educational reforms.
Edo’s success in improving learning outcomes has not gone unnoticed, and the State has received recognition from a number of international organisations. In 2019, the World Bank named Edo as one of the top-performing States in Nigeria in terms of educational outcomes. The State has also been recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for its efforts to improve literacy rates.
Despite these achievements, Edo still faces significant challenges in its quest to improve learning outcomes for all its citizens. Scarce funds have limited interventions in addressing inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified teachers.
Nevertheless, Edo’s commitment to improving education remains strong, and Governor Godwin Obaseki continues to implement innovative programs and initiatives to improve learning outcomes for all its students.
In conclusion, Edo’s growing global recognition for improving learning outcomes is a testament to the Governor’s commitment to providing quality education for its citizens. By investing in teacher training, technology, and innovative programs such as EdoBEST, Edo State has made significant strides in improving learning outcomes for its students. While there are still challenges to be addressed, Edo’s success offers valuable lessons for other states and countries looking to improve their education systems.
