Taraba State launches digital learning platform to expand school access

The Taraba State Government in Nigeria launched the Nigeria Learning Passport (NLP) to provide flexible and inclusive educational opportunities for children.

This digital platform aims to reduce the number of children out of school and ensure learning continues for those in vulnerable communities or areas affected by crises. UNICEF praised the state for its education reforms, which include making basic and secondary education free and compulsory.

The organization noted that these policies, along with the removal of illegal fees and the distribution of free materials, helped increase school enrollment from roughly 760,000 to over one million pupils. The government also prioritized inclusive education for children with special needs and improved teacher recruitment and training. The government partnered with Microsoft, the Global Partnership for Education, Airtel, IHS Towers, and TECNO to roll out the digital platform.

These partners helped address connectivity barriers to ensure the technology reaches students. The Commissioner for Secondary, Technical and Vocational Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin, announced that the pilot phase will begin in 50 schools across the state before expanding to more locations.