By Joyce Remi Babayeju
The Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) says it is deliberately nurturing a new generation of problem-solvers, innovators, and entrepreneurs to drive sustainable development in the FCT and Nigeria at large.
The Mandate Secretary of the FCT Education Secretariat, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at the maiden Science, Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (STIE) stakeholders’ meeting organised by the board.
Hayyo noted that rapid global changes driven by science, technology and innovation demand a shift in the education sector beyond traditional literacy and numeracy.
According to him, there is an urgent need to prioritise critical thinking, creativity, digital literacy, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial skills among learners.
He said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on human capital development, youth empowerment, job creation, and economic diversification.
“By integrating entrepreneurship and innovation into basic education, we are preparing our learners not just to seek jobs, but to create them,” he said.
Hayyo stressed that achieving this vision requires stronger collaboration among educators, policymakers, parents, the private sector, and development partners.
He also emphasised the need for continuous teacher training to equip educators with modern, innovation-driven teaching methods.
The Mandate Secretary commended the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for ongoing investments in school infrastructure, noting that the rehabilitation and renovation of schools have created a conducive learning environment.
He added that efforts would be intensified to equip schools with digital tools and establish innovation hubs where pupils can explore areas such as coding, robotics, vocational skills, creative arts, and enterprise development.
Also speaking, the Acting Executive Chairman of FCT UBEB, Mrs. Florence Wenegieme, described the stakeholders’ meeting as a critical step toward repositioning basic education to meet 21st-century demands.
She said the board’s focus on science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship reflects a global shift toward practical, skill-based and technology-driven learning.
“The future of our children depends on how well we prepare them today. Our goal is to nurture learners who can think critically, innovate boldly, and solve real-life problems,” she said.
Wenegieme added that early exposure to entrepreneurial education would equip pupils with the skills and confidence needed to transform ideas into practical solutions, ultimately preparing them to become job creators.
She further called for the adoption of modern teaching approaches, including project-based learning, practical demonstrations, and the use of digital tools to make learning more engaging and impactful.
End
