The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched the distribution of 3,530 Let’s Read textbooks and 357 digital learning devices to 35 public primary schools under the EIDU Digital Learning Programme.
The initiative, which is expected to benefit more than 10,000 pupils, is aimed at strengthening foundational literacy and numeracy while expanding access to technology-supported learning in public schools.
The distribution was flagged off on Wednesday at Government Secondary School, Life Camp, Abuja, by the FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr Danlami Hayo.
Speaking at the ceremony, Hayo described the intervention as an important step towards improving the quality of education in the territory and equipping children with essential skills for an increasingly digital world.
He said the programme went beyond providing learning materials, noting that it offered pupils opportunities to improve their reading abilities, build confidence and develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
“These figures represent more than the distribution of books and digital devices. They represent opportunities for children to improve their reading abilities, develop confidence, acquire essential knowledge, and build a stronger foundation for lifelong learning,” he said.
The mandate secretary described the EIDU Digital Learning Programme as a valuable partnership initiative capable of addressing some of the critical challenges facing the education sector.
He emphasised that reading and comprehension were fundamental to children’s academic development, explaining that pupils who acquire strong reading skills early in life were better equipped to understand other subjects, communicate effectively and think critically.
Hayo, however, cautioned that the provision of textbooks and digital devices would only produce meaningful results if the resources were properly integrated into classroom activities.
“We must ensure that these resources are properly utilised by teachers and pupils to achieve measurable improvements in learning outcomes,” he said.
He therefore urged school administrators to ensure proper accountability, maintenance and effective use of the distributed materials, while encouraging teachers to embrace digital learning and incorporate regular reading activities into their lessons.
The mandate secretary also called on parents and guardians to support their children’s education by encouraging regular reading at home and maintaining collaboration with teachers.
He urged the pupils to make effective use of the textbooks and digital learning resources, stressing the importance of dedication to their studies.
Hayo commended EIDU and other development partners for supporting the initiative, saying collaboration among government, development organisations, educators and communities remained essential to building an inclusive and technology-driven education system.
