Government in Action
The SchoolNet DigiNetCentre Project
Feb 10, 2004, 17:18
| | The SchoolNet DigiNetCentre Project was conceived to give Nigerian students an opportunity to use Information and Communications Technology (ICT) vehicles to enhance their learning experience.
All schools in Nigeria are to be equipped with necessary computer and communications technologies to enable students participate in the project.
SchoolNet Nigeria therefore uses ICTs to assist teaching and learning in primary and secondary schools.
It therefore brings together teachers and students in an effort transform the education system to one that participates in and benefits from the knowledge society.
A number of public and private sector interest groups has come together to mobilise manpower and financial resources for the project.
The pilot project
The pilot project involves 35 schools selected from six states and the Federal Capital Territory. The Education Tax Fund (ETF) provided needed equipment.
Participating schools received educational content via these technologies. Their teachers were equally trained on how to use the technologies.
Education Minister, Prof Fabian Osuji, launched the first phase of the project on Friday 14 November 2003, with five schools selected from among the six projected states and the FCT.
SchoolNet Programmes
Although the Project involves a broad-based set of activities and interventions, it can only apply its expertise effectively to a few core programme areas.
The SchoolNet project is currently implemented through four special programmes, as follows:
· Digi-Net (Digital Inclusion) Programme
The Digital Inclusion programme implements, supports and co-ordinates ICT development projects in education. It provides and supports Internet and technology solutions for schools, particularly low-cost solutions. At the same time, it provides technical infrastructure and connectivity to schools.
· People-Net (Human Resource Development and Capacity Building) Programme
The People-Net Programme develops human resource capacity at local, statewide and national ICT levels. It is used to implement training for educators on the use of new technology to enhance teaching and learning. Government addresses shortage of technical skills through the programme.
· K-Net (Knowledge Warehouse) Programme
The K-Net Programme develops and supports the development of education content for use by learners and educators, with emphasis on local content. It promotes collaboration among educators and learners. It seeks to improve the education system by assessing the impact of learning and use of resources in classrooms.
· Vox-Net (Advocacy and Marketing) Programme
The Advocacy and Marketing Programme creates awareness of the use of ICTs in education. This awareness is created through print and electronic media, conferences, seminars, as well as the Internet. The aim is to create grassroots demand and adoption at all levels of the education system.
In the same way, the Advocacy Programme is used to develop partnerships in support of ICTs in education. It also provides strategic guidance while supporting policy development in the area of ICTs.
Partnerships
The SchoolNet Project was conceived with stakeholders in the education sector in mind. It therefore brings together stakeholders and key decision makers in shaping the direction and implementation of its various programmes.
The Project is also designed to open capacity building opportunities for its staff and beneficiaries to inculcate a culture of professional development and life long learning.
Apart from working with government education and telecommunication structures to support the project, the programme also draws from international expertise and best practices to assure its success. At all times, however, its direction and management are left in the hands local managers.
© Copyright 2006 nigeriafirst.org
Top of Page | 
