From job seekers to job creators: FCT-UBEB unveils initiative to transform young learners

By Stanley Onyekwere

​The Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) has launched a strategic initiative to transform young learners into a generation of innovators and entrepreneurs capable of driving Nigeria’s sustainable growth.
​Speaking at the maiden Science, Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship Stakeholder Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, the Mandate Secretary for the FCT Education Secretariat, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, emphasized that the rapid evolution of the global landscape necessitates a shift in educational priorities.
​Dr. Hayyo argued that traditional focuses on literacy and numeracy are no longer sufficient in a world driven by technology.
​“The education sector must be at the forefront of this evolution. “It is imperative that we prioritize critical thinking, problem-solving, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial skills.
“By integrating these into basic education, we are deliberately preparing our young learners not just to seek jobs, but to create them”, he stated.
​He further noted that this mission aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which targets human capital development and economic diversification to reduce unemployment and foster self-reliance.
​The Mandate Secretary credited FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike for creating an enabling environment through the massive renovation of schools across the territory.
He revealed plans to build on this foundation by equipping schools with.
​Dr. Hayyo called for a “collective and coordinated effort” involving parents, policymakers, and the private sector.
He noted that industry partnerships are vital for providing students with mentorship, internships, and exposure to real-world challenges.
​Earlier, the acting Executive Chairman of FCT UBEB, Mrs. Florence Wenegieme, described the meeting as a milestone in the journey to modernize the FCT’s basic education system.
​Wenegieme highlighted that the board has strengthened its Department of Science, Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship to ensure pupils are capable of solving real-life problems.
​“The era of passive learning is giving way to interactive, learner-centered approaches.
“Our goal is to nurture young minds that can think critically and embrace entrepreneurship as a pathway to national development. We want our pupils to be job creators from the very start”, Wenegieme said.
​The initiative aims to implement project-based learning and practical demonstrations across all FCT schools, ensuring that education remains relevant, impactful, and aligned with global standards.