By DAYO ADESULU
A US-based multinational company, Digital Learning Network (DLN), and the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Lagos Chapter, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to transform education in Nigeria through the AI Smart Schools Initiative.
Key Features of the MoU
The partnership focuses on:
- Providing educational infrastructure and integrating technology into learning.
- Launching a one-laptop-per-learner program to equip students with digital tools for the future.
- Enhancing teacher and administrator capacity for improved educational outcomes.
A Game-Changer for Education
At the signing ceremony held at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, the NAPPS Lagos President, Alaka Yusuf, described the initiative as a groundbreaking step toward bridging the gap between traditional and modern education.
“With a laptop in the hands of every learner, we are fostering creativity, critical thinking, and global competitiveness. This initiative empowers not only our students but also our educators,” Yusuf said.
He further emphasized that this program aligns with NAPPS Lagos’ mission to lead private schools toward academic excellence and innovation.
DLN’s Commitment to Nigeria’s Education Sector
The CEO and President of DLN, Thomas Larmena, highlighted the company’s dedication to transforming education in Nigeria:
- The $1 billion project, funded by DLN, aims to:
- Provide digital learning solutions to over 5 million private school students in Lagos.
- Offer AI-powered platforms, laptops, and digital literacy training.
- Create 2,400 new jobs and 1,400 instructor roles through local assembly facilities.
- Deliver affordable data solutions to over 40 million students.
- DLN plans to scale up the initiative nationwide, replicating its $1.2 billion digital education model with discussions already underway with Lagos State.
Larmena also noted that the company would leverage SpaceX and Starlink connectivity for high-speed internet access and partner with local telecom companies to extend connectivity beyond school campuses.
“Our goal is to improve education quality, promote social inclusion, and drive economic growth without burdening the government, NAPPS, or students with extra costs,” Larmena stated.
Impact on the Future of Learning in Nigeria
The initiative is expected to enhance access, engagement, and communication between students, parents, and schools, while positioning Nigeria’s education sector to compete globally.
Broad Support for the Initiative
The signing ceremony was attended by the management teams of DLN and NAPPS, signaling a collaborative effort to revolutionize education in Lagos and beyond.
