By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo recently launched a smart learning initiative for deepening the knowledge of information and communication technology (ICT) among the students through education.
The programme, Smart Learn Anambra initiative, kicked off this week with convening of a strategic engagement with principals of the 22 selected pilot schools cum high-level meeting which brought together key government stakeholders and school leaders to align on expectations, responsibilities, and the roadmap for implementation.
According to the Managing Director, Anambra State ICT Agency, Mr Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), the Smart Learn Anambra was a bold step toward integrating technology into secondary education with outlined core components of the initiative aimed at bridging the digital divide, equipping students with 21st-century skills, and positioning Anambra State as a model for smart education in Nigeria.
This included installation of solar power systems for uninterrupted electricity, modern Android TV screens, reliable internet connectivity, and e-learning tools, provision of Learning Devices-Tablets and other digital tools for educators and students to support interactive learning.
“Specialized Laboratories: STEM and computer labs with hands-on resources, including about 40 computers per school. School Upgrades and Renovations: Modernization of school facilities for improved learning environments.
“Enhanced ICT Curriculum: Updated content to reflect global tech trends and prepare students for the digital age. Digital Management Systems: Tools for streamlined record-keeping and school data management. Security Measures: CCTV surveillance and trained personnel to protect school assets.”
“Aesthetic Improvements: Beautification projects to inspire and motivate learners. This is a heavy investment, and the need to secure it cannot be overemphasized,” CFA noted, adding that “We must catch our children young—not just to consume technology, but to become producers, creators, and innovators. That’s what Smart Learn is about.”
On her part, the State Commissioner for Budgeting and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake said the technology-driven reforms and educational movement was a goal to build a smarter, brighter future for all Anambra students through holistic approach to educational transformation.
“We are upgrading our schools as centers of technological innovation and excellence. The Smart Learn Anambra initiative is where we are now, and we are grateful to Mr. Governor,” she added.
Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh argued that upgrading schools into tech-enabled learning hubs represents a fundamental shift in how education is delivered in Anambra State.Contributing, the Chairman, Anambra State Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), Prof. Nkechi Ikediegwu encouraged the school principals to fully embrace the initiative by understanding their roles, guarding and safeguarding the smart infrastructure for betterment of students and schools generally.
Speaking in separate interviews, school principals, appreciated Governor Soludo for his vision and for selecting their schools as pilot beneficiaries, even as they pledged to be fully committed to safeguarding the investment and upgrading themselves into smart teachers in preparation to training smart students.
