...supplies mathematics textbooks to Makurdi school

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has renewed its collaboration with the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) to strengthen learning outcomes in selected Effective Model Schools across the state.

The renewed partnership, which focuses on improving access to modern learning facilities and instructional resources, was highlighted during a strategic engagement between JICA officials and SUBEB leadership at the Board’s headquarters in Makurdi on Thursday.

The Special Assistant to the Executive Chairman on Corporate Communications and Community Engagement, Msughter Ataigbough in a statement noted that the engagement provided an avenue for both organizations to reaffirm their commitment to quality education in Benue state.

Speaking at the session, Mr. Stephen Nwanya, Program Coordinator for Education and Long-term Training Programme of JICA, lauded SUBEB for its dedication to expanding structural access to basic education.

He disclosed that under JICA’s Grant Aid Project, the agency plans to construct Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and vocational laboratories and provide the required equipment to LGEA St. Theresa’s Primary School, Makurdi, as well as other Effective Model Schools across the state.

Dr. Hikaru Kusakabe, Basic Education Advisor for JICA, also announced the commencement of the agency’s Technical Cooperation Project in Benue State.

“As part of our initiative, we have supplied 100 mathematics textbooks to LGEA St. Theresa’s Primary School and are piloting a new mathematics learning application designed for primary schools,” Dr. Kusakabe stated.

Responding to the renewed support, SUBEB Executive Chairman, Dr. Grace Adagba, expressed deep appreciation to JICA saying, “this intervention strongly aligns with our ACCESS pillar, which prioritizes improved learning environments and expanded opportunities for pupils across Benue State.”

Dr. Adagba further revealed that LGEA St. Theresa’s Primary School is earmarked for comprehensive renovation, with rehabilitation expected to commence in the coming months, a development she said would be significantly enhanced by JICA’s support.

She observed that the collaboration between SUBEB and JICA underscores a shared commitment to improving the quality of basic education in Benue State through enhanced infrastructure, improved learning materials, and the introduction of innovative educational tools.

The engagement was attended by officials from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and senior management staff of Benue SUBEB.