From Uchenna Inya, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Executive Council has approved a Smart Education Project for 43 secondary schools across the state to transform teaching and learning through digital technology and artificial intelligence.
The Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abakaliki, the state capital, on the outcome of this week’s Executive Council meeting.
He explained that the project would involve the deployment of 989 HUAWEI IdeaHub Smart Interactive Boards in classrooms and laboratories, alongside the establishment of 43 dedicated artificial intelligence education classrooms.
He noted that the initiative also includes virtual laboratories for Physics and Chemistry with more than 500 pre-installed experiments, learning management systems, AI education platforms and 5,000 wireless number pads to enhance classroom interaction.
According to the commissioner, the project is designed to equip students with digital literacy, artificial intelligence knowledge and the technological skills required to compete in the rapidly evolving global digital economy, thereby positioning Ebonyi State as a leader in technology-driven education in Nigeria.
Omebeh said Governor Francis Nwifuru revealed that the proposed HUAWEI factory at the state ICT University, Oferekpe, would serve as a technology and innovation hub for the state and the African continent upon completion.
He further disclosed that the council approved the submission of the 2025 Ebonyi State Business Enabling Reforms Action Plan (BERAP) Progress Report, a critical requirement for the state to qualify for the implementation of the World Bank-supported State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Programme in 2026.
He emphasised that the report reflects the state’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business, attracting private investment and strengthening economic development.
The commissioner also announced that the meeting commenced with the swearing-in of Mrs Rita Polycarp Nwite as Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Mobilisation.
He added that Governor Nwifuru commended members of the Executive Council for their improved performance since the cabinet reshuffle and urged them to sustain the momentum in delivering quality governance under the administration’s People’s Charter of Needs.
(The Sun)