The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) in Lagos State has announced a $1 billion agreement with Digital Learning Network Inc. (DLN), a US-based education technology business, to transform digital education in Nigeria. The project, fully funded by DLN, aims to improve educational quality and promote social inclusion across the country using technology.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lagos, the President of the NAPPS Lagos, Alaka Yusuf, said the project would revolutionise the education system in Nigeria.
According to him, “The signing of the agreement is the beginning of the whole new thing, and as you have seen in their presentation, they will start the distribution of laptops before 12 months because they need to involve their financial support from partners in America.
“This project will be a significant change in the education sector. As you are all aware, the digitalisation of education in Nigeria has taken too slow. Most private and even public schools do not have devices to use. So, how do we now transform education? If children don’t have devices or tools, it will be a promise in vain.
The agreement revolves around creating an artificial intelligence-powered digital learning platform adapted to the local curriculum.
The partnership’s other goals include distributing laptop computers, providing high-speed internet access to all students, and providing substantial training for educators and learners.
DLN CEO and President Thomas Larmena emphasised the significance of this effort for Nigerian students, saying, “If we do not act now, Africa will be left behind.” He also stressed the project’s potential to generate over 2,400 high-paying jobs in Lagos, including 1,400 posts for educators.
DLN plans to use SpaceX’s Starlink to ensure internet connectivity in participating schools and is considering local laptop assembly facilities to make it more affordable for Nigeria’s 40 million students.
Larmena continued: “Lagos State is the initial launchpad for this transformative project. We are in negotiations with several states about expanding our programmes statewide.” He emphasized immediate and long-term benefits, stating that students will have more access to educational resources and personalized learning experiences.
Finally, according to the parties, this project aspires to make a major contribution to Nigeria’s economic growth and long-term development through digital innovation.
The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) is the apex association of private school owners in Nigeria. It was created to promote the welfare and interaction of private school proprietors and the advancement of quality educational services in the country. It strives to be the incubator of knowledge and orientation required to provide and create the change needed for national development and transformation. NAPPS is committed to the comprehensive education and nurturing of the Nigerian child for functional quality living and nation-building.
