Bill to Increase UBEC Funding Passes Second Reading

A bill proposing amendments to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Act, aimed at doubling its funding from the consolidated revenue, has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.

During the oversight function of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services at the Digital Resource Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, Chairman Bako Useni announced the progress of the bill, which seeks to elevate UBEC’s financial capacity from 2 percent to 4 percent.

“The 10th Assembly recognized the imperative of bolstering financial resources in the basic education sub-sector to enhance its efficacy,” remarked Useni, underscoring the significance of the amendment bill sponsored by Muktar Shagaya.

He emphasized that the proposed amendment, having cleared the second reading, is poised to fortify UBEC’s mandate substantially.

“The House acknowledges UBEC’s significant strides since its inception in 2004. However, augmenting its funding is deemed essential for the agency to further advance its objectives,” Useni stated.

Expressing satisfaction with the Digital Resource Centre’s establishment, Useni articulated the committee’s commitment to ushering in innovative approaches to Nigeria’s basic education landscape.

“The Centre heralds a paradigm shift in basic education delivery, promising to enhance teacher training and curriculum content,” he affirmed.

Useni affirmed the committee’s pledge to sustain diligent oversight over the Centre’s operations, ensuring optimal utilization of allocated resources for the nation’s educational advancement.

UBEC’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Hameed Bobboyi, hailed the Centre as a pivotal stride towards digitizing education in Nigeria, commending the House Committee’s visit to inspect its facilities, including the Digital Museum, Library, Artificial Intelligence Centre, studios, and lecture halls.

“The Centre signifies UBEC’s commitment to revolutionize digital education within the basic education sub-sector,” remarked Dr. Bobboyi, citing its potential to empower educators with modern pedagogical tools.

Echoing Dr. Bobboyi’s sentiments, the National Coordinator of the Digital Resource Centre, Professor Bashir Galandanci, emphasized the Centre’s role in spearheading UBEC’s transition into the digital age.