₦airaland Forum

Recent reports have raised concerns about a suspected diphtheria outbreak at King's College, Lagos (KCL), following the hospitalization of several students exhibiting symptoms consistent with the disease. In response, the school, in collaboration with health authorities, has initiated measures to manage and contain the situation.

Key Developments:

Vaccination Drive: The school, in partnership with the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, has distributed immunization consent forms to parents, signaling the commencement of a diphtheria vaccination campaign.


WHO Involvement: Officials from the World Health Organization have visited the campus to assess the situation and provide safety guidelines to prevent further spread.


Health Measures: Students displaying symptoms have been isolated and are receiving treatment at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) assures parents that they are collaborating closely with health agencies to manage the outbreak effectively.

Source: VANGUARD

Understanding Diphtheria:

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the respiratory system and can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Transmission:

The bacteria spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. It can also be transmitted by touching infected open sores or ulcers. Close contacts of an infected person are at increased risk.
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Symptoms:

Sore throat

Fever

Swollen neck glands

Weakness

Within 2–3 days, a thick, grey coating can develop in the nose, tonsils, or throat, making breathing and swallowing difficult.


Prevention:

Diphtheria is preventable through vaccination. WHO recommends a series of vaccinations starting as early as six weeks of age, followed by booster doses during childhood and adolescence. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against the disease.

Source: WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Recommendations for Parents and Guardians:

Stay Informed: Maintain open communication with the school's administration for updates on the situation.

Ensure Vaccination: Verify that your child's immunizations are up to date. Participate in the school's vaccination programs as advised.

Monitor Health: Be vigilant for symptoms such as sore throat, fever, or difficulty breathing in your children. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.

Promote Hygiene: Encourage regular handwashing and the use of face masks to reduce transmission risks.

The situation at King's College underscores the importance of vaccination and prompt medical attention in preventing and managing diphtheria outbreaks. Parents are urged to cooperate fully with health directives to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

Note: This information is based on current reports and guidelines from health authorities. For the latest updates, please refer to official communications from King's College and public health officials.

kk

The recent sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have sparked a heated debate. While the case is still ongoing, I personally believe there is a strong possibility that Akpabio might be guilty. Here’s why:

A History of Demeaning Women in the Senate
This is not the first time Akpabio has been in the news for his treatment of female lawmakers. Just a few months ago, he made headlines for speaking condescendingly to Senator Natasha on the Senate floor, telling her that her conduct was more suited to a “nightclub.” Many saw this as not just disrespectful but a clear attempt to belittle a female colleague.

Similarly, he dismissed concerns raised by Senator Ireti Kingibe about being excluded from key discussions on the FCT budget. Instead of addressing the issue, Akpabio brushed her aside, reinforcing the perception that he does not respect women in positions of power.

Powerful Nigerian Men and Their Influence
Nigeria has a long history of powerful men using their influence to escape accountability. Akpabio, as the Senate President, controls a lot of political power and can sway decisions in his favor. When Natasha filed her petition, the Senate Ethics Committee dismissed it on a procedural technicality. Shortly after, Natasha was suspended from the Senate for six months over unrelated issues. The timing of this raises serious questions.

We’ve seen this pattern before, when influential men in Nigeria face serious allegations, the system often protects them instead of delivering justice. Many believe Natasha is being punished for speaking up.

What’s Next?
While Akpabio denies the allegations, it is crucial for Nigerians to keep their eyes on this case. Will it be swept under the rug like many others? Or will Natasha get the fair hearing she deserves?

What do you think? Is this another example of the powerful silencing the weak? Share your thoughts.

Give Your Child the Future They Deserve

Parents, let me ask you something painful but important:

In a world where technology is changing EVERYTHING, are you preparing your child to lead or to be left behind?

Every day, I see brilliant Nigerian children with incredible potential. But potential MEANS NOTHING without the right opportunities.

Your child is NOT just another student. Your child is a FUTURE INNOVATOR waiting to be awakened.

Imagine your child:
- Creating their own video games
- Solving complex problems with confidence
- Standing out in a competitive world
- Having skills that make employers chase THEM

We're not just teaching coding. We're unlocking DREAMS.

🌟 What Makes Us Different:
- Interactive learning that sparks JOY
- Hands-on experiences that build REAL skills
- A safe space where creativity FLOURISHES
- Guidance from passionate tech professionals

👨‍👧 We believe every child has a genius waiting to be discovered

🎁BONUS: FREE Demo Class to see the magic yourself

Limited spots available. Your child's future can't wait.

WhatsApp NOW: 08079026504


Don't just hope for your child's success. INVEST in it.

.
.
.

.

Give Your Child the Future They Deserve

Parents, let me ask you something painful but important:

In a world where technology is changing EVERYTHING, are you preparing your child to lead or to be left behind?

Every day, I see brilliant Nigerian children with incredible potential. But potential MEANS NOTHING without the right opportunities.

Your child is NOT just another student. Your child is a FUTURE INNOVATOR waiting to be awakened.

Imagine your child:
- Creating their own video games
- Solving complex problems with confidence
- Standing out in a competitive world
- Having skills that make employers chase THEM

We're not just teaching coding. We're unlocking DREAMS.

🌟 What Makes Us Different:
- Interactive learning that sparks JOY
- Hands-on experiences that build REAL skills
- A safe space where creativity FLOURISHES
- Guidance from passionate tech professionals

👨‍👧 We believe every child has a genius waiting to be discovered

🎁BONUS: FREE Demo Class to see the magic yourself

Limited spots available. Your child's future can't wait.

WhatsApp NOW: 08079026504


Don't just hope for your child's success. INVEST in it.

.
.
.

1.

Is Homeschooling Better Than Enrolling in a School?

I made a post on Nairaland some days ago asking whether private schools are worth the cost, and it went viral! The discussion was heated, with people sharing different perspectives on the value of formal education.

One comment in the thread caught my attention. A Nairalander said instead of paying expensive school fees, he would get a school curriculum, hire teachers, and homeschool his kids. This sparked a debate in my mind:

Can homeschooling really replace traditional schools?
Is this a cost-effective and better option, or is it unrealistic?

Let’s break it down.

The Case for Homeschooling

Customized Learning
Homeschooling allows parents to personalize education for their children. Instead of a one-size-fits-all curriculum, kids can learn at their own pace and focus on subjects that interest them.

No School Fees or Hidden Charges
With private schools getting more expensive and with public schools overcrowded, some parents feel homeschooling is a cheaper alternative. They can hire a teacher (or teach themselves), buy textbooks, and control spending.

Better Discipline & Morals
Many parents complain about negative influences in schools, bullying, peer pressure, bad habits. With homeschooling, parents can instill the values they want their kids to have.

Flexible Learning Schedule
No waking up by 5 AM for school runs! Homeschooling allows kids to learn without stress, take breaks, and develop other talents like sports, music, or coding.

The Problems with Homeschooling

Social Development is Limited
Schools are not just about books. They teach social skills, how to interact with others, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. A homeschooled child may struggle with making friends or handling real-world interactions.

Not All Parents Can Teach Well
Teaching is a skill. Not every parent is a good teacher, even if they hire tutors. A professional school system has trained teachers, structured learning, and better assessment methods.

Exposure to Different Subjects & Opportunities
In school, kids get exposed to a variety of subjects, extracurricular activities, competitions, and real-world skills. Homeschooling might limit exposure to diverse learning experiences.

Discipline & Routine Issues
Some kids learn better in a structured environment. Without the pressure of school rules, homework, and exams, homeschooled kids might lack discipline and struggle with time management.

Final Thoughts: Will This Work in Nigeria?
Homeschooling can work, but it requires a serious commitment from parents. You need:
✔ A solid curriculum
✔ Good teachers
✔ A way to test progress
✔ Social activities for interaction

For many Nigerian parents, full homeschooling may not be realistic because of work schedules, financial constraints, and lack of teaching experience. A hybrid model (combining home tutoring with part-time schooling) may be a better option.

What do you think? Is homeschooling a better alternative or a difficult experiment? Let’s discuss!

budaatum:
Sounds like arguing if running should replace walking or calculus replace algebra, as if one needn't learn to crawl before flying.

Good write. Enjoyed it.

Yes, i agree. Everything is in stages and handwriting should not replace typing.

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This is a debate between me and a friend who is a handwriting coach.

The conversation started when I suggested that schools should focus more on typing skills than handwriting since we are in a digital age. My friend, a strong advocate for handwriting, disagreed passionately. This led to a deep discussion about whether handwriting is still relevant or if typing should take over in schools.

My Argument as a Kids Coding and Digital skills Teacher

Technology is the Future in today's world, almost every profession requires digital literacy. From writing emails to coding and document creation, typing has become a fundamental skill. Since students will ultimately work in a digital environment, shouldn’t they focus more on mastering keyboards than cursive writing?

Typing is Faster and More Efficient Let’s be honest, typing is way faster than writing by hand. A student who types can complete assignments, take notes, and even collaborate on projects much more efficiently than one who only writes by hand. With the rise of AI tools, online learning, and digital exams, being able to type quickly is now a major advantage.

Most communication is digital. Letters have been replaced by emails, and notebooks have been replaced by Google Docs. In a world where people text, email, and chat online more than they write with a pen, why should schools still emphasize handwriting when typing is more relevant?

Handwriting is becoming obsolete. How often do people actually write by hand these days? Apart from signing documents or writing personal notes, handwriting has little practical use in modern life. Many adults struggle with writing neatly because they hardly use handwriting in their daily lives. Should we really be forcing kids to perfect a skill they may never use?

My Friends Argument as a Teacher and Handwriting Coach.

Handwriting Improves brain function. My friend, the handwriting coach, argues that writing by hand engages the brain differently than typing. Studies show that handwriting improves memory, comprehension, and creativity. Writing by hand forces students to slow down and think about what they are writing, which enhances learning and retention.

Handwriting develops fine motor skills. Learning to write improves hand-eye coordination and motor skills in young children. Typing doesn’t offer the same developmental benefits because it involves pressing keys instead of forming letters manually.

Cursive writing helps with signature and identity. One argument my friend made that I found interesting is the importance of a signature. A typed name doesn’t carry the same personal touch as a handwritten signature. If we stop teaching handwriting, future generations might struggle with something as basic as signing documents.

Not everyone has access to digital devices in many parts of the world, students don’t have access to laptops, tablets, or even reliable electricity. If schools focus only on typing, students in underprivileged areas may be left behind. Handwriting is a universal skill that doesn’t require expensive gadgets.


Our conclusion

Maybe the real solution isn’t choosing one over the other but finding a balance. Instead of replacing handwriting entirely, schools could:

Teach basic handwriting skills in early grades, then introduce typing as students get older.

Allow students to choose between handwritten and typed assignments based on their preference.

Focus on the practical aspects of both skills, for example, teaching students how to sign documents while also training them in fast, accurate typing.

So, who won the debate between me and my handwriting coach friend? Neither of us!

Both handwriting and typing have their place in education. While typing is essential for the future, handwriting still has cognitive and motor benefits that shouldn’t be ignored. Perhaps the best approach is not to choose one over the other but to integrate both skills effectively into the school curriculum.

What do you think? Should schools phase out handwriting in favor of typing, or should both be taught equally? Let’s discuss!

CodeTemplar:
Yes. They need to develop their own AI or interact with AI at some stage in their career.

I agree and they can only be able to develop their own if the have the skills and expertise which sould be encourage at an early age.

Give Your Child the Future They Deserve

Parents, let me ask you something painful but important:

In a world where technology is changing EVERYTHING, are you preparing your child to lead or to be left behind?

Every day, I see brilliant Nigerian children with incredible potential. But potential MEANS NOTHING without the right opportunities.

Your child is NOT just another student. Your child is a FUTURE INNOVATOR waiting to be awakened.

Imagine your child:
- Creating their own video games
- Solving complex problems with confidence
- Standing out in a competitive world
- Having skills that make employers chase THEM

We're not just teaching coding. We're unlocking DREAMS.

🌟 What Makes Us Different:
- Interactive learning that sparks JOY
- Hands-on experiences that build REAL skills
- A safe space where creativity FLOURISHES
- Guidance from passionate tech professionals

👨‍👧 We believe every child has a genius waiting to be discovered

🎁BONUS: FREE Demo Class to see the magic yourself

Limited spots available. Your child's future can't wait.

WhatsApp NOW: 08079026504


Don't just hope for your child's success. INVEST in it.

.
.
.

.

.

In recent years, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked debates about whether learning to code is still relevant. Some argue that AI can now generate code, reducing the need for human programmers. However, as Nigerian parents, it is crucial to consider the bigger picture. Should kids still learn coding? The answer is a resounding yes, and here’s why.

1. Coding Develops Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Coding is not just about writing lines of code; it is about logical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. When children learn to code, they develop a structured approach to breaking down problems, identifying patterns, and finding solutions. These skills are valuable in any career path, not just in technology.

2. AI is a Tool, Not a Replacement

While AI can assist in coding, it does not replace the human ability to think, innovate, and create new solutions. AI can automate repetitive tasks, but it still relies on human programmers to set goals, interpret results, and ensure accuracy. Teaching kids to code helps them understand how AI works and positions them to be creators, not just consumers.

3. Coding Opens Global Opportunities

The world is becoming more digital, and technology is driving economies. Countries like the United States, Canada, and Germany actively seek tech talents. By learning coding from an early age, Nigerian children can position themselves for remote jobs, scholarships, and international opportunities in the tech industry.

4. Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Nigeria is filled with young, ambitious entrepreneurs who are using technology to solve local problems. From fintech to edtech, many successful startups in Nigeria were built by people who understood how to code. By equipping children with coding skills, parents give them the power to create innovative solutions that can transform their communities and even the world.

5. The Future of Work Demands Tech Skills

Many traditional jobs are being automated, and new job roles are emerging. Fields such as robotics, cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering are in high demand. Even in non-tech careers like medicine, finance, and agriculture, coding skills are becoming essential. Teaching kids coding today prepares them for the jobs of the future.

6. Coding Enhances Academic Performance

Studies show that children who learn coding tend to perform better in subjects like mathematics, science, and even language arts. Coding strengthens logical reasoning, enhances memory, and improves attention to detail, all of which contribute to better academic performance.

7. AI and Coding Go Hand in Hand

Instead of seeing AI as a reason to stop learning coding, children should be taught how to work alongside AI. AI models like ChatGPT and Copilot are built on code, and those who understand coding will be better equipped to use and improve these technologies.

How Nigerian Parents Can Get Started

- Enroll kids in coding classes (both online and physical coding boot camps are available in Nigeria).
- Introduce them to beginner-friendly platforms like Scratch, Pictoblox, or Python.
- Encourage coding games and activities to make learning fun.
- Support their interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

In a world driven by technology, coding is no longer an optional skill, it is a fundamental literacy. While AI is powerful, it does not replace the need for human creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. Nigerian parents who invest in their children’s coding education are not just preparing them for careers in tech but are giving them a lifelong advantage in a digital world.

So, should kids still learn coding? Absolutely! The future belongs to those who can understand and shape technology, not just those who use it. Start your child’s coding journey today!

Give Your Child the Future They Deserve

Parents, let me ask you something painful but important:

In a world where technology is changing EVERYTHING, are you preparing your child to lead or to be left behind?

Every day, I see brilliant Nigerian children with incredible potential. But potential MEANS NOTHING without the right opportunities.

Your child is NOT just another student. Your child is a FUTURE INNOVATOR waiting to be awakened.

Imagine your child:
- Creating their own video games
- Solving complex problems with confidence
- Standing out in a competitive world
- Having skills that make employers chase THEM

We're not just teaching coding. We're unlocking DREAMS.

🌟 What Makes Us Different:
- Interactive learning that sparks JOY
- Hands-on experiences that build REAL skills
- A safe space where creativity FLOURISHES
- Guidance from passionate tech professionals

👨‍👧 We believe every child has a genius waiting to be discovered

🎁BONUS: FREE Demo Class to see the magic yourself

Limited spots available. Your child's future can't wait.

WhatsApp NOW: 08079026504


Don't just hope for your child's success. INVEST in it.

.
.
.

Give Your Child the Future They Deserve

Parents, let me ask you something painful but important:

In a world where technology is changing EVERYTHING, are you preparing your child to lead or to be left behind?

Every day, I see brilliant Nigerian children with incredible potential. But potential MEANS NOTHING without the right opportunities.

Your child is NOT just another student. Your child is a FUTURE INNOVATOR waiting to be awakened.

Imagine your child:
- Creating their own video games
- Solving complex problems with confidence
- Standing out in a competitive world
- Having skills that make employers chase THEM

We're not just teaching coding. We're unlocking DREAMS.

🌟 What Makes Us Different:
- Interactive learning that sparks JOY
- Hands-on experiences that build REAL skills
- A safe space where creativity FLOURISHES
- Guidance from passionate tech professionals

👨‍👧 We believe every child has a genius waiting to be discovered

🎁BONUS: FREE Demo Class to see the magic yourself

Limited spots available. Your child's future can't wait.

WhatsApp NOW: 08079026504


Don't just hope for your child's success. INVEST in it.

.
.
.

Give Your Child the Future They Deserve

Parents, let me ask you something painful but important:

In a world where technology is changing EVERYTHING, are you preparing your child to lead or to be left behind?

Every day, I see brilliant Nigerian children with incredible potential. But potential MEANS NOTHING without the right opportunities.

Your child is NOT just another student. Your child is a FUTURE INNOVATOR waiting to be awakened.

Imagine your child:
- Creating their own video games
- Solving complex problems with confidence
- Standing out in a competitive world
- Having skills that make employers chase THEM

We're not just teaching coding. We're unlocking DREAMS.

🌟 What Makes Us Different:
- Interactive learning that sparks JOY
- Hands-on experiences that build REAL skills
- A safe space where creativity FLOURISHES
- Guidance from passionate tech professionals

👨‍👧 We believe every child has a genius waiting to be discovered

🎁BONUS: FREE Demo Class to see the magic yourself

Limited spots available. Your child's future can't wait.

WhatsApp NOW: 08079026504


Don't just hope for your child's success. INVEST in it.

.
.
.

Sex is not food, but neither is power a weapon to silence victims. Dismissing allegations without due process only discourages victims from speaking up. Everyone deserves a fair hearing, not mockery.

Technology is shaping the future, and raising a tech-savvy child is one of the best gifts you can give them. In today’s world, children who understand technology have an advantage in school, career opportunities, and problem-solving skills. But how can Nigerian parents ensure their kids use technology wisely and productively?

1. Start Early with Digital Literacy
📌 Introduce your child to educational apps, e-books, and interactive learning platforms like:
✅ ScratchJr & Pictoblox: For coding basics
✅ Duolingo: For language learning
✅ Khan Academy Kids: For fun math & science lessons

2. Encourage Coding & STEM Education
💻 Coding is the new literacy! Kids who code develop creativity, logic, and problem-solving skills.
👉 Start with free platforms like:

Scratch (For ages 6-10)
Code.org (Game-based learning)
Tynker (Creative coding for kids)

3. Get Them a Budget-Friendly Laptop or Tablet
🎓 A personal device helps kids explore tech, complete schoolwork, and learn independently.
👉 Consider affordable options like Chromebooks or tablets with keyboards.

4. Set Up Safe Internet Practices
🔒 Teach kids how to browse safely and avoid online dangers. Use:
✅ Google Family Link: To monitor screen time
✅ Kid-friendly browsers: Like Kiddle or SafeSearch
✅ Parental controls – On YouTube and gaming platforms

5. Enroll Them in Online Tech Classes
🎓 Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and local coding classes (like mine 😊) offer beginner-friendly courses.

6. Expose Them to Tech Role Models
🚀 Share stories of African tech leaders like:

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (Flutterwave)
Silas Adekunle (Nigerian Robotics Engineer)
Funke Opeke (MainOne Cable)

7. Let Them Build, Not Just Consume!
🛠️ Encourage your child to create content instead of just watching videos or playing games.
✅ Make animations with Scratch
✅ Build websites with simple drag-and-drop tools
✅ Try robotics kits for hands-on learning

Raising a tech-savvy child in Nigeria is not about giving them unlimited screen time but guiding them to use technology productively. Start small, support their interests, and watch them grow into digital innovators! 🚀

👉 Do you want tech recommendations for your child? Drop their age, and I'll suggest the best resources! 😊

werisetogether:
Thanks for starting this topic.

Didn’t know what to think at first when I saw the headline. How could the startup close after raising $3.5m in seed funding?

But then again, there could be more to the story than we know.

The Edukoya team deserves some accolades for their vision and effort. They’ve even promised to refund investors.

With that said, maybe we can all learn a few lessons from their story. While funding definitely has its place, product-market fit and timing are other factors that can determine the success of a venture.

After onboarding the 80,000 students, what exactly was the revenue model? Was it a freemium model? Was there a clear path to profitability or were people reluctant to upgrade, preferring to stay on free forever?

Once again, bravo to the Edukoya team for being bold enough to pursue their vision. Let’s hope we can build on their lessons learned and create sustainable education solutions for the next generation.

Thanks again for sharing this. Hope more people contribute on this thread so we can all learn & grow together

You’ve raised some great points! Edukoya’s closure highlights a key challenge in Nigeria’s digital education space, beyond funding, there’s the issue of accessibility and product-market fit. The digital divide remains a major barrier, with high internet costs, limited connectivity, and affordability issues making it difficult for widespread adoption.

Their revenue model is definitely something worth discussing. If the majority of users stayed on the free plan, then monetization would have been a big hurdle. It raises the question: Are Nigerian parents and students truly ready to pay for digital learning at scale?

There’s a lot to learn from Edukoya’s journey, and I hope future edtech startups take these lessons into account. Sustainability in edtech requires a balance between innovation, market readiness, and infrastructure support.

Looking forward to hearing more thoughts from others on this!

Stepout23:
Education is one of the biggest investments parents make for their children, and in Nigeria, the debate between private and public schools is always ongoing. Many parents believe that private schools offer better quality education, improved facilities, and a stronger academic foundation, but the high cost often raises the question: Is it really worth it?

Advantages of Private Schools
✅ Smaller Class sizes: More attention for each student
✅ Better Facilities: Access to modern classrooms, libraries, and tech tools
✅ Quality Teachers: Some argue that private school teachers are more committed
✅ Extracurricular Activities: Exposure to robotics, coding, arts, and sports
✅ Parental Involvement: More structured communication with parents

Challenges of Private Schools
❌ Expensive Tuition: Some schools charge millions per year
❌ Not Always Better: Some private schools focus more on profit than education
❌ Pressure on Kids: High expectations can sometimes stress students
❌ Social Exposure: Less interaction with students from different backgrounds

The Public School Reality
Public schools, though more affordable, often face issues like overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and teacher shortages. However, some federal government colleges and top public schools still provide quality education.

What Do You Think?
Are private schools worth the cost in Nigeria?
Have you had a great experience with a public school?
Should the government do more to improve public education?
Let’s discuss! Drop your thoughts below! 👇🏽

Reading through this entire thread, I can see we're all concerned about giving our children the BEST education possible. But what both private and public schools often miss is teaching the MOST VALUABLE SKILL for the future - CODING!
While schools debate outdated curricula, the global economy is RAPIDLY changing. The highest-paying jobs today require tech skills that most Nigerian schools (even some expensive private ones) simply don't teach effectively.

I run specialized CODING CLASSES FOR KIDS (ages 8-12) that will give your child what regular schools can't:
✅ STRUCTURED CURRICULUM: Carefully designed lessons that build real skills step-by-step
✅ HANDS-ON PROJECTS: Children create their own games and animations (not just theory!)
✅ FUTURE PROOF SKILLS: Programming knowledge that opens doors to global opportunities
✅ A FREE DEMO CLASS: See the difference before committing


The child who can code will have opportunities your generation never imagined. Don't let your child be left behind while others move forward.

Limited spots available for our upcoming session. WhatsApp ONLY: 08178443675

Give your child a future you never had – start their tech journey today!

...


The recent decision to close schools in some northern states for five weeks due to the Ramadan fast has sparked conversations about its impact on students, especially those from low-income families. While the break may allow students and teachers to fully observe the fasting period, it raises concerns about learning loss and educational inequality.

For students in elite private schools, learning will likely continue uninterrupted. Many private schools will transition to online classes, and wealthy parents will provide educational materials or hire tutors to keep their children engaged. However, the reality is different for students in public schools and low-income households.

With limited or no access to online learning, these students will be at risk of significant learning setbacks. A five-week academic gap, without structured learning, can affect retention, reduce motivation, and further widen the performance gap between privileged and underprivileged children.

This situation calls for important discussions:

1. Should schools explore alternative learning strategies during Ramadan, such as shorter school hours instead of full closure?

2. Can state governments introduce community-based or radio/TV educational programs to keep students engaged?

3. How can parents and NGOs support children’s learning during this period?

4. Education should not be placed on hold due to economic barriers. Every child, regardless of background, deserves equal learning opportunities.

What do you think? How can we ensure that learning continues for all children despite the school closure?

bassdow:
Left to me, just visit a couple of schools, get their scheme of work and syllabus, then employ services of 2 or 3 teachers to home school them.

School is not just about knowlege, what about the social skills for your child.

Yugoslavia247:
Lol.

Even in US private schools are sought after.


Even my parents had the funds, i would never have smelt any govt dungeon call school.

Most government school from primary to tertiary can hardly boast of good toilets.


They prefer to setup laterine.
Same school that teach the dangers of laterine.

There is no fun in poverty.

Gbam..

....


Edukoya’s shutdown is a clear reminder that the digital divide in Nigeria is still very wide. Limited internet access, high data costs, and expensive devices make it difficult for many families to adopt digital learning. Until these fundamental issues are addressed, even the most well-funded edtech startups will struggle to scale. The question is: How can we bridge this gap and make digital education truly accessible for all?


....

Blossomcresty:
Those that spent over 6 Years or more In public school for a 4 Year course will be looking at u with Gbejero EYE....

It's the reality now oh

Blossomcresty:
Those that spent over 6 Years or more In public school for a 4 Year course will be looking at u with Gbejero EYE....

It's the

Blossomcresty:
Those that spent over 6 Years or more In public school for a 4 Year course will be looking at u with Gbejero EYE....

Education is one of the biggest investments parents make for their children, and in Nigeria, the debate between private and public schools is always ongoing. Many parents believe that private schools offer better quality education, improved facilities, and a stronger academic foundation, but the high cost often raises the question: Is it really worth it?

Advantages of Private Schools
✅ Smaller Class sizes: More attention for each student
✅ Better Facilities: Access to modern classrooms, libraries, and tech tools
✅ Quality Teachers: Some argue that private school teachers are more committed
✅ Extracurricular Activities: Exposure to robotics, coding, arts, and sports
✅ Parental Involvement: More structured communication with parents

Challenges of Private Schools
❌ Expensive Tuition: Some schools charge millions per year
❌ Not Always Better: Some private schools focus more on profit than education
❌ Pressure on Kids: High expectations can sometimes stress students
❌ Social Exposure: Less interaction with students from different backgrounds

The Public School Reality
Public schools, though more affordable, often face issues like overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and teacher shortages. However, some federal government colleges and top public schools still provide quality education.

What Do You Think?
Are private schools worth the cost in Nigeria?
Have you had a great experience with a public school?
Should the government do more to improve public education?
Let’s discuss! Drop your thoughts below! 👇🏽

Nigerian education technology startup Edukoya has ceased operations after nearly three years, citing challenges such as limited internet penetration, high device costs, and declining disposable incomes, which hindered the scalability of its digital education services. The company, which raised a record $3.5 million in pre-seed funding in 2021, announced it would return capital to investors rather than continue in an unsustainable market environment.
PUNCHNG.COM

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Despite onboarding over 80,000 students and facilitating millions of practice questions and live tutoring sessions, Edukoya faced fundamental adoption challenges that led to this decision. The company's closure highlights the broader struggles within Africa's edtech sector, where startups often grapple with infrastructure gaps and affordability constraints.


Edukoya's leadership expressed gratitude to its team, parents, students, and investors, stating that while their journey is ending, the insights gained could help pave the way for future innovations in African edtech when the market is more supportive.

Source: PUNCHNG.COM

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