The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is set to provide modern ICT and vocational training equipment to selected public schools in Benue State as part of a grant-aid project aimed at boosting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
A JICA delegation, led by consultant Mr. Kenji Kawazoe, arrived in the state to begin research and environmental assessments of pilot schools. The initiative will also cover infrastructure design and construction to improve the learning environment, particularly for the girl child.
Executive Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace D. Adagba, who accompanied the team on an inspection of schools, said the intervention was made possible through the goodwill of the agency, which has recognized the ongoing revolution in basic education under Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration.
She explained that the project will complement government efforts to reposition public schools by providing facilities and equipment that support ICT learning and vocational training alongside STEM-focused education.
Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, commended the SUBEB chairman for attracting international investment to the education sector and assured JICA of the state government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for partnership.
Programme Coordinator, Education and Long-Term Training for JICA, Mr. Stephen Nwanya, emphasized that the project would contribute to the growth of basic education by equipping schools with ICT resources and vocational tools to strengthen STEM education.
The delegation visited St. Theresa’s Primary School, Makurdi, and will proceed to St. Francis Primary School, Otukpo, both chosen as pilot schools for the programme’s take-off.
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