Anambra Government Engages Principals of Pilot Schools on Smart Learn Initiative

The Anambra State Government as part of the ongoing rollout of the Smart Learn Anambra initiative, a bold step towards tech enhanced education, convened a strategic engagement with principals from 22 selected pilot schools.

The high-level meeting gathered key government stakeholders and school leaders to align on expectations, responsibilities, and a roadmap for implementation.

In attendance were the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake; the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh; the Managing Director of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA; and the Chairman of the Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), Prof. Nkechi Ikediegwu.

Repositioning education

Addressing the principals, Mrs. Nnake reiterated Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s commitment to repositioning education in Anambra State through technology-driven reforms.

“What we’re witnessing today is not just a project announcement but the beginning of an educational movement,” she remarked.

“Governor Soludo’s goal is to build a smarter, brighter future for all Anambra students through this holistic approach to educational transformation. We are upgrading our schools to become centers of technological innovation and excellence.”

In her remarks, Professor Chuma-Udeh emphasized that Governor Soludo is focused on “smart education.”

“There were schools without teachers and students lacking conducive learning environments,” she noted.

“Within six months of his administration, Governor Soludo facilitated the recruitment of teachers, and now we are transforming schools into tech-enabled learning hubs. This initiative signifies a fundamental shift in how education is delivered in Anambra State,” he stated.

Embrace their roles

Professor Nkechi Ikediegwu encouraged the school principals to fully understand and embrace their roles in the success of the initiative.

“This project is in your hands,” she said.

“You must protect and maintain the smart infrastructure deployed in your schools. Ownership and commitment are critical for sustainability.”

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, Managing Director of the State ICT Agency, described Smart Learn Anambra as a bold step toward integrating technology into secondary education. He outlined the core components of the initiative.

Infrastructure Enhancement

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 foster interactive learning.

Specialised Laboratories:  STEM and computer labs equipped with approximately 40 computers per school.

School Upgrades and Renovations: Modernisation of school facilities to improve 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 safeguard school assets.

Aesthetic Improvements: Beautification projects designed to inspire and motivate learners.

“This is a significant investment, and the need to secure it cannot be overstated,” CFA emphasised.

“We must nurture our children’s potential, encouraging them not only to consume technology but to become producers, creators, and innovators. That’s the essence of Smart Learn.”

The issue of security was also a prominent concern raised by the principals.

All stakeholders agreed that the safety and longevity of the infrastructure would require collective vigilance and community support.

Mrs. Nnake and Professor Ikediegwu both stressed the importance of personal responsibility, urging principals to view themselves as custodians of the initiative and to fully commit to its success.

In turn, the principals expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for his vision and for selecting their schools as pilot beneficiaries.

They pledged their commitment to safeguarding the investment and to evolving into smart educators prepared to drive this transformation.

The Smart Learn Anambra initiative is a flagship program under the Soludo administration aimed at bridging the digital divide, equipping students with 21st-century skills, and positioning Anambra State as a model for smart education in Nigeria.

Lateefah Ibrahim