NCC seeks input on free internet for educational platforms
The Nigerian Communications Commission has started consulting stakeholders on a plan to provide free or subsidised internet access to approved educational platforms for students and learners. The initiative aims to address the high cost of internet connectivity, which many say is a major barrier to digital learning in Nigeria. Key figures such as Ayuba Shuaibu, Zainab Abubakar-Suleiman, Cletus Katung, Dr Ebenezer Leo, and Dr Yinka Oyerinde voiced support and highlighted the importance of quality, sustainability, and inclusivity. The proposed framework will undergo further review based on recommendations from the consultation before being finalised.
TLDR
- The NCC is developing a framework to allow students free or subsidised access to approved educational websites and digital learning resources.
- Stakeholders from government, telecoms, education, and civil society are involved in reviewing the proposal to ensure it is transparent, sustainable, and fair.
- Ayuba Shuaibu emphasised the need to remove affordability barriers to digital education for millions of Nigerian students.
- Zainab Abubakar-Suleiman and others stressed that the framework should prioritise educational quality, learner protection, and sustainability, not just connectivity.
- The initiative is expected to start with a pilot phase, with recommendations on implementation, funding, and governance to be considered before a nationwide rollout.
