How technology can help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on education in Nigeria

The education system in Nigeria faced challenges due to the global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary schools in Nigeria reopened on August 4th to allow senior graduating students to prepare for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), which begins on June 14th. This reopening has sparked numerous questions and concerns surrounding the current realities of the education system in Nigeria. Jadesola Adedeji, the CEO of STEM METS Resources, recently discussed the situation in an interview with CNBC Africa. Adedeji highlighted the dilemma the government faced in balancing safety and education during the pandemic. While private schools were able to transition to online learning, many public schools lacked the resources to do so, widening the education gap between the two sectors. The decision to reopen schools for only SS3 students was an attempt to address this gap while implementing safety measures such as handwashing stations and social distancing protocols. The conversation then shifted to the impact of technological advancement on education in Nigeria. Adedeji emphasized the lack of investment in infrastructure and technology within the education sector, which was exacerbated by the pandemic. While some states, like Lagos, resorted to low-tech solutions such as radio and television broadcasts for lectures, the digital divide remained a significant challenge. The reliance on technology for continued learning highlighted the existing gaps in Nigeria's education system. When addressing concerns about the effect of these challenges on students' chances in the upcoming exams, Adedeji expressed worry about the inevitable impact of the digital gap. The disparities in access to technology and resources would have lasting effects on students' educational outcomes, not only in Nigeria but also globally. Adedeji acknowledged that the efforts to bridge this gap would require extensive planning and innovation in the education sector. As Nigeria navigates the complexities of conducting exams amidst a global pandemic, the integration of technology and innovative solutions will be crucial in ensuring continued access to education for all students. The challenges highlighted by Adedeji underscore the need for strategic investments in technology and infrastructure to bridge the digital gap and create a more inclusive educational system in Nigeria.