The Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has adopted alternative methods of teaching and learning for primary school pupils in line with the COVID-19 lockdown in the state.
Chairman of the board, Prof. Mathew Sule, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on Sunday in Jos.
Sule said the board had begun Television and Radio lessons for pupils in Mathematics, English and phonics, which is transmitted on the Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC) from 9 a.m to 11 a.m. weekdays.
He added that it has produced learning materials in hard copies, which were being distributed to pupils in rural areas who lack access to radio and television, to study at home.
He said the initiative was aimed at supporting as well as keeping the pupils away from idleness, adding that it would stop any gap in their educational sojourn.
“We have commenced radio and television lessons for our children in Mathematics, English Language and phonics.
“This is to enable them learn during the lockdown period and avoid physical contact and mass gathering as directed by government.
“In addition, we have produced simplified study materials that are being distributed to children especially in rural areas that may not access Radio and Television services.
“Government is partnering with U-LESSON Education, one of the new Education Technology Company in Nigeria to offer online science education to secondary school students,” he said.
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The chairman explained that the pupils would study the learning materials distributed to them under the guidance of their parents and teachers who live within the community.
He explained that at the end of the lockdown directive, the materials would be collected and assessed by the teachers and scores added to what the pupils would do when they resume.
“We have directed teachers who live in same communities with the children to guide them in studying and learning the materials, but most importantly, we expect parents to guide the children more in this regard.
“Education is collaborative, and so, we have sensitised parents to ensure that their children effectively study these materials.
“Nobody planned for this pandemic, but since we have found ourselves in this situation we have to adjust and fashion out ways to keep these pupils busy before things normalises,” he said.
