The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has endorsed the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) Zero-Rate Access for Educational Platforms and Contents initiative, describing it as a strategic step toward improving digital literacy and expanding access to education across Nigeria.
The commendation came during a one-day public consultation forum organised by the NCC in Abuja on Tuesday, where stakeholders from the education, telecommunications and technology sectors gathered to discuss the proposed framework.
Speaking at the event, UNESCO Abuja Office Digital Transformation Specialist, Dr. Yinka Oyerinde, said the initiative arrives at the right time, following years of digital literacy investments by the Federal Government and other agencies.
According to him, programmes driven by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Ministry of Education have laid the foundation for the success of the zero-rated educational content initiative.
He acknowledged that while some may consider the programme overdue, its timing is strategic because the necessary structures to ensure its effectiveness are already in place.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, represented by the Director of Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis, Dr. Ayuba Shuiabu, stressed the importance of stakeholder participation in shaping the framework.
Maida said the initiative is designed to reduce the financial burden of internet access, which has prevented millions of Nigerian students from benefiting from digital learning opportunities.
He noted that the framework must reflect the contributions of content providers, educators, students, communities and other stakeholders who will play critical roles in its implementation.
Also speaking, Director of ICT at the Federal Ministry of Education, Zainab Suleiman, welcomed the initiative, describing affordable internet access as essential for improving learning outcomes nationwide.
She said many learners, teachers and educational institutions continue to struggle with high data costs, poor connectivity and limited access to digital learning materials, challenges that hinder research, skills development and inclusive education.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Director of ICT Mrs. Folasade Loyede, through Chief Programme Analyst Emmanuel Udoidiok, said the initiative aligns with the ministry’s vision of building a digitally inclusive nation.
She emphasised that affordable access to educational resources is critical to ensuring that students, researchers and teachers, regardless of location or economic background, can benefit from digital education.
Loyede added that discussions at the consultation would focus on key issues, including defining eligible educational platforms, promoting fair competition, protecting consumers and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
The Zero-Rate Access for Educational Platforms and Contents initiative seeks to make approved educational resources accessible without data charges, helping to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide and support inclusive learning.
