By Helen Robertson
The Federal Government has inaugurated an implementation Committee for the Nigerian Education Data Initiative.
Inaugurating the Committee in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa said the move was to ensure a unified and comprehensive data framework in the nation’s education sector.
Dr. Alausa explained that the Initiative was to create a centralized databank to consolidate critical education data across the country.
The Minister who emphasized the lack of a comprehensive data framework as a major obstacle to effective decision-making in the sector, said that NEDI would leverage the National Identity Number (NIN) to track students’ educational progress and ensure inclusivity.
“For too long, our education system has been hindered by the absence of a unified and comprehensive data framework. It has been fragmented, inconsistent, with incomplete data spread across various institutions, agencies and states”
“This has also impeded our ability to make informed decisions, allocate resources effectively, and measure progress with accuracy. Today, we are saying unequivocally: this must change,” he stated.
He said the key areas of focus would encompass a wide range of data categories that reflect the realities and complexities of the education system, including school locations and infrastructure, student information, parental data, teachers and educators, examination and assessment records, as well as university and tertiary education data.
The Minister of Education while pledging the support of the Ministry to the task ahead, urged members to ensure data security and robust consultations in carrying out their assignment.
“I urge you to approach this assignment with the utmost dedication, professionalism, and a sense of purpose. The future of Nigeria’s education system depends on your ability to deliver on this mandate” he adds
”We will provide the necessary resources and institutional support to ensure that NEDI succeeds in transforming our education system,” the Minister stated
Earlier, the Vice Chairman of the Committee, Mr Abubakar Isah promised not to betray the confidence reposed in them.
The 25 man Committee has representatives cut across different Ministries , Departments and Agencies, MDAs and has before the end of third quarter of the year to submit its report.
