With the completion and submission of the report by the inter-ministerial committee on e-Learning, the federal government is ready for seamless adoption and inclusion of e-Learning framework in all levels of the nation’s education system. Ruquayyatu Rufa’i, minister of education made this known in Abuja yesterday, emphasising that the introduction of e-Learning across the Nigeria education system is long overdue.
The Committee, which was first inaugurated in 2009 had, few months ago, submitted its main report to the minister but was advised to scale down the framework so that its implementation will be in stages.
“This has been done,” she said. “The introduction of e-learning is necessary because it will accelerate a number of policy initiatives of the government. It would enhance access, adult education, sharing of information and production of a better-skilled work force.” Mrs Rufa’i said with the presentation of the report, the stage is set for ”the implementation of the initiative.” Godswill Obioma, chairman of the committee, said they were commissioned towards the end of 2009 but when the cabinet was dissolved, there was a slow down before the new administration came on board. They started with the first plan which was elaborate but was completed after six months. This was presented to the coordinating committee where it was decided that they should scale it down.
On the content of the e-Learning implementation document, Mr Obioma revealed that there are four aspects of the document.
“We have connectivity aspect which should be federal government’s responsibility to see there is connectivity infrastructure; then the software and hardware which has to do with computers, laptops and related equipment.
“Then there is a content standard which has to do with ensuring that the contents that will be driven along the super highway are compliant with the minimum content qualification standards at various levels, the communications aspects will ensure that it is properly communicated to the end users. These four aspects are completely ready. The baseline component which supposed to update baseline information for the effective take-off of e-Learning,” said Mr Obioma.
Waiting for funds
When the committee secures adequate funding for the baseline, they will procure consultants that will carry out the outline business case in order to be sure that the process satisfies the requirement for public private partnership.
E-Learning can drive open and distance learning and also serve as a driver of ICT in education. It will add value not only to education but to governance because e-Learning is all encompassing.
E-Learning is a way of transmitting educational content through the Internet. It does not require physical contact; its major advantage is that if one has been excluded from participating in formal education he can be educated through e-learning.
Author: Chief Editor
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