BY NGOZI A. NWANKWO

In a major leap towards building a digitally empowered education system, the Federal Ministry of Education, under the leadership of Honourable Minister Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has unveiled a new collaboration with AWS Academy.

This strategic effort aims to equip Nigerian students and educators with 21st-century digital competencies, particularly in cloud computing, machine learning, and other emerging technologies.

Anchored on the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government and aligned with the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), the project is a demonstration of the Ministry’s resolve to bridge the digital divide and create equal opportunities for learners and teachers across the nation.

Alausa emphasised that the initiative is not only timely but transformative, as it prepares Nigerian graduates and lecturers to compete in an increasingly global digital economy.

The project’s pilot phase has successfully onboarded coordinators from 43 federal universities and polytechnics.

In line with its inclusive approach, the Ministry is now extending the programme to all federal, state, and private tertiary institutions (universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education) nationwide.

Alausa urged Vice Chancellors, Provosts, and Rectors to nominate coordinators who will serve as official liaisons between their institutions, AWS, and the Ministry.

These coordinators, according to him, will be responsible for nominating lecturers, who will then enrol their students for the training, ensuring smooth implementation and maximum participation.

“To eliminate financial barriers, the Federal Ministry of Education will sponsor 50% of certification costs, with AWS covering the remaining 50%. As a result, participants will undergo the training and earn internationally recognized certifications at no cost.

“State and private tertiary institutions interested in joining the programme are encouraged to register their coordinators through the official portal now available on the Ministry’s website: Registration Link: https://forms.gle/RABJuj7Ct7rrpwP1A” he stated.

The Minister said the second phase of onboarding begins in the coming weeks.

The Ministry urged all qualified institutions to act swiftly to secure placement in this pioneering initiative that promises to redefine the digital future of Nigerian education.

It was gathered that this collaboration with AWS marks a bold step in advancing inclusive, innovative, and skill-based education in Nigeria, ensuring that no student or educator is left behind in the global digital revolution.