With a population of over 200 million, 70% of whom are under the age of 30, Nigeria’s education sector has long struggled with overcrowded classrooms and insufficient learning resources. In recent years, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, digital solutions have begun to bridge the gap, offering hope to millions of students across Nigeria. Educational technology, or EdTech, is transforming the way education is delivered in the country.
The halt in classroom learning caused by the COVID-19 lockdown forced stakeholders to turn to virtual learning. After the lockdown, as classes returned to normal, it became obvious to many that educational technology might provide access to knowledge that the current curriculum did not make provision for.
For many young Nigerians, technology has unlocked a world of opportunities, particularly in acquiring new skills and upskilling themselves. Mercy Nnaji, a young professional and EdTech user, attributes her introduction to these platforms to her “hunger and thirst for knowledge.” This reflects the aspirations of many Nigerian youths who want to stay relevant in today’s fast-paced world.
EdTech has risen to the occasion, with 2023 witnessing a sharp increase in usage as more Nigerians gain access to mobile phones and expand internet coverage. Digital platforms have become an essential part of meeting the educational needs of millions of people.
Mercy has used platforms such as Udemy, Simplilearn, and LinkedIn Learning. She also regards YouTube as an EdTech platform because of the abundance of educational resources available there. These platforms primarily serve tertiary and post-tertiary learners, but there are also options for secondary school students. One prominent example is uLesson, launched in 2019, which offers quizzes and video lessons for students to access from home. With over two million downloads, uLesson has made a significant impact. Other platforms like Gradely and ScholarX provide personalised lessons and access to scholarships, helping low-income families afford education.
The real impact of EdTech in Nigeria lies in its ability to democratise access to learning. “Edtech has brought my learning to me and not me going to it,” Mercy remarks. This convenience is crucial for working youths like her. She used Udemy to learn graphic design, a skill not typically taught in traditional classrooms.
Traditionally, students in urban areas with access to better schools have had an advantage over their rural counterparts. However, platforms such as Passnownow, FlexiSAF, and Upskill are helping to level the playing field by providing digital versions of the national curriculum and teacher training tools, making education more accessible.
While EdTech is making considerable impact, it is important to remember that not everyone can benefit from this great opportunity. The digital divide has been and still remains a formidable barrier. Although Nigeria boasts over 108 million internet users, internet penetration stands at 47%, leaving millions of students, especially in rural areas, without reliable access. Equally significant is the cost of data, and digital devices remain out of reach for many families.
Mercy also points out another common challenge. “The major challenge I have faced is inconsistency with power supply and poor Internet.” She also notes financial constraint is a barrier, as “some of the courses I wanted to take required some financial commitment to get the certificate or even enrol in the course.” These issues prevent many Nigerians from fully benefiting from EdTech and raise concerns about inclusivity.
While educational technology holds great promise, more needs to be done to realise its full potential. The federal government and private sector players must address infrastructural gaps, particularly in rural areas. Investing in rural digital infrastructure could significantly expand EdTech’s reach. Additionally, partnerships between private organisations and EdTech platforms could lead to training programmes that not only create jobs but also equip Nigerian youths with relevant skills for the rapidly evolving job market.
Despite these challenges, the future of EdTech in Nigeria looks bright. Policymakers and educators are increasingly recognising its potential. Initiatives like the Nigeria Learning Passport, a collaboration between UNICEF and the Nigerian government, aim to improve access to quality education for all Nigerian children through digital platforms. Such public-private partnerships are essential for sustaining the growth of EdTech in Nigeria.
Many EdTech platforms are now offering scholarships and discounts to ease the financial burden. Platforms like Udemy frequently run promotions, making their courses more affordable for Nigerian learners.
The Nigerian education system still has a long way to go, but it is undergoing a much-needed transformation with educational technology playing a leading role. For it to truly fulfil its potential, however, efforts must be made to ensure that it reaches every Nigerian student, regardless of location or economic status. Addressing the digital divide, improving infrastructure, offering scholarships and fostering collaboration are just some of the ways that Nigeria can use the full potential of educational technology and offer its young population the quality education they deserve.
Nigeria, with a youthful population heavily reliant on its education sector, has faced challenges such as overcrowded classrooms and inadequate resources. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of educational technology (EdTech), allowing virtual learning to bridge these gaps. Platforms like Udemy, Simplilearn, and LinkedIn Learning, along with local ones like uLesson, have become key in providing access to diverse learning opportunities and skills acquisition. This tech-driven approach has democratized education, particularly for urban youth, although challenges like internet access, cost, and inconsistent power supply remain significant barriers.
Despite these hurdles, there is an optimistic outlook for EdTech in Nigeria. Initiatives like the Nigeria Learning Passport, and increased public-private partnerships, aim to enhance accessibility and infrastructure, especially in rural areas. As digital platforms expand and offer financial incentives like scholarships and discounts, EdTech stands poised to transform Nigeria's educational landscape. However, sustained efforts are needed to ensure inclusive access and truly leverage this transformation for all Nigerian students.
