Education
The Impact of Smaller Classes on Education
By Zubair Suliman
We’re often told that education is the best way out of poverty, but for many in Sub-Saharan Africa, the path out is often broken, especially for those who need an escape route the most.
There are many reasons why education barriers in the sub-region persist. For one, enrollment levels remain a problem. World Bank economists found that more than one in five primary school-aged children in Sub-Saharan Africa weren’t in school last year. And, according to ISS African Futures, once kids are in school we also battle to keep them there.
Despite progress made since the Education for All movement in the 1990s, there are still too few teachers to cater for the growing student population, according to the Common Wealth of Learning – resulting in lower engagement time with individuals and higher workloads for teachers. The 2023 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) progress report lays bare just how far behind the world is falling in achieving quality education for all.
Without more investment, only one in six countries will reach the target of getting all its adults to finish secondary school. A goal which, according to UNESCO, if achieved, could reduce global poverty by half. The SDG progress report indicates that more capital is also needed to close the nearly $100 billion yearly financing gap that lower and middle-income countries face. Without this funding, SDG education targets will remain unattainable.
But where should we invest to make the biggest impact on learner retention and outcomes? With time running out to meet UN goals to end poverty and promote prosperity, let’s look at the funding channels which have the most influence on a child’s school day for solutions.
Improve the daily school experience
Researchers for the International Journal of Educational Research analysed just under two decades of peer-reviewed research to understand what kinds of projects resulted in benefits for school kids.
Interestingly, the amount of money available to a school doesn’t necessarily correlate with student performance on “learning outcomes” such as reading for comprehension or their understanding of mathematics and science.
According to the ISS African Futures, interventions that can change a child’s daily school experience in a meaningful way make a huge difference because such projects can shield pupils from factors such as lack of desks, textbooks and equipment that can make learning more difficult.
Infrastructure projects, student performance incentives and support for teachers and their teaching methods were all among the ‘best buys’ for education.
Learners at electrified schools, for example, get better grades because they can study for longer on dark days or in after-school programmes. According to a paper published in Science Direct, scholarships can motivate students by exposing them to opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have known about. They also help alleviate the cost of education, even in countries like Uganda where primary school is free but parents still struggle to afford uniforms and books.
The quality of the lessons children have also plays a huge role in how well they do. Schools with teachers that have greater knowledge of the subjects they teach, tend to produce students with better grades.
Smaller classes, more trained teachers, better outcomes
Class sizes impact both learning and a teacher’s willingness to stay at that school. Smaller classes allow educators to address individual challenges and go beyond just delivering educational content.
The student-to-teacher ratio measures the number of students per teacher in a class. Malawi and Tanzania have some of the highest ratios (55:1 and 57:1, respectively), while Botswana has the lowest.
According to the Litera Centre, optimal ratios vary based on economic and population factors. Lower ratios often mean teachers have a better understanding of student interests, goals and struggles enabling timely interventions to improve academic performance. When combined with teachers who have advanced subject knowledge, lower ratios can provide even more meaningful support to pupils.
Investing in impact
Norsad has invested nearly $40 million in social infrastructure services to improve education on the continent. Our investment partner Nova Pioneer schools, with their low student-to-teacher ratios, demonstrate the positive effects of this approach. Across 13 campuses in Kenya and South Africa, 4 400 learners benefit from two teachers in every classroom.
This structure allows teachers to focus on developing both problem-solving and soft skills, equipping learners for the knowledge economy. Teachers are trained as facilitators who encourage student-led solutions, fostering critical thinking skills in every class. Learners get a solid foundation in developing skills aligned with the fourth SDG: providing young adults with relevant skills for 21st-century jobs.
Facilities like school labs amplify the impact of this learning model, enabling exploration rather than rote memorisation and this can foster innovation skills necessary for modern careers. In these times interpersonal skills aren’t just nice to have, they are foundational.
“You can expect your voice to be heard,” said one student when asked how Nova Pioneer is different from other schools. This matters because “you start believing in yourself and the things that you can do,” she says.
Unlocking potential
Despite lagging progress on the education SDG targets, immense potential remains. As research shows – investments in infrastructure and human resources that directly improve students’ school day lead to better learning outcomes. From reading comprehension to coding and robotics skills, impact investing can help close critical skills gaps, reduce poverty and gender inequality and promote prosperity.
This International Day of Education, let’s strengthen our partnerships and turn to tactical investments so we can build a better, more equal Africa.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The N1 trillion scholarship programme of the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) for about 1.3 million Nigerian students has been applauded by the federal government, the state governments and the others.
The scheme was designed to expand access to education and promote academic excellence across Nigeria. Starting in 2026, the initiative will support over 1.3 million students from all 774 local government areas, with N100 billion committed annually for 10 years.
It targets Nigeria’s most vulnerable learners and is structured into three categories: Aliko Dangote STEM Scholars – 30,000 undergraduates in public universities and polytechnics will receive tuition support of up to ₦600,000 per year; Aliko Dangote Technical Scholars – 5,000 TVET trainees will get essential study materials and technical tools; MHF Dangote Secondary School Girls Scholars – 10,000 girls in public schools will receive uniforms, books, and learning supplies, prioritizing states with high out-of-school rates.
The programme would be implemented in partnership with NELFUND, JAMB, NIMC, NUC, NBTE, WAEC, and NECO. It would be based on merit, with beneficiaries chosen through a fully digital system.
Vice President Kashim Shettima praised the organisation for the intervention, saying it demonstrates the critical role of private-sector actors in national development.
He noted that Nigeria’s demographic growth makes urgent investment in education indispensable, warning that “a population becomes a liability only when it is uneducated.”
“Aliko Dangote, through his far-reaching philanthropy, has set in motion the single largest private-sector education support intervention in the history of this country. What he has done here today is a lesson to each of us. This is nation-building in its purest form,” Mr Shettima said.
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, speaking on behalf of the 36 state governors, also commended the initiative and pledged the governors’ full support.
The Minister of Education, Mr Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as “pure human capital development,” saying it aligns with the President Bola Tinubu administration’s education sector renewal plan of transforming Nigeria from resource-based economy to a knowledge-based economy and is significant because every local government area will benefit.
He said by the end of the first decade of the execution of the scholarship programme, it is estimated that over 170,000 girl-child would have gone to school.
On his part, Mr Dangote said the intervention is aimed at Nigeria’s most vulnerable learners, noting that financial hardship, not lack of talent, is the primary reason many drop out of school.
“This is not only charity. This is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future. Every child we keep in school strengthens our economy. Every student we support reduces inequality. Every scholar we empower becomes a future contributor to national development.
“Our young people are not asking for handouts. They are asking for opportunities. They are asking for a chance to learn, to grow, to compete and to succeed. And we believe they deserve that chance,” he stated.
“No young person should have their future cut short because of financial hardship. We are stepping forward to ensure students stay in school and pursue their ambitions.
“This initiative is more than financial aid—it is an investment in human capital, with ripple effects on economies, societies, and future generations. When a student gets a scholarship, entire communities stand to benefit,” the business mogul added.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Entries for the Undergraduate Tech Scholarship in Nigeria by Airtel Africa Foundation have opened and applicants can register via candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/airtelfellowship2025.
This programme forms part of the foundation’s F.E.E.D. agenda, which promotes Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion, with a focus on creating pathways for talented young people who face financial barriers.
The scheme, according to a statement from the not-for-profit organisation, provides full tuition, accommodation support, and essential study materials for 100-level students with strong academic potential.
Applications are open to students pursuing courses such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines at participating universities: University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.
Applicants must be enrolled in 100-level, have scored at least 230 in JAMB, and hold a minimum of five credits in WAEC, including English and Mathematics, in a single sitting.
Required documents include Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, university admission letter, West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate, student identity card, and academic transcript or university results.
Qualified students across the listed institutions have been encouraged to apply and position themselves for a stronger start in the technology sector.
the chairman of Airtel Africa Foundation, Mr Segun Ogunsanya, said the scholarship demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders.
“Young Africans are brimming with talent and ambition. What many need is a fair chance to pursue their education without financial pressure.
“This scholarship reflects our belief that investing in their growth will strengthen communities, empower families, and expand the continent’s digital future,” the former chief executive of Airtel Africa Plc, noted.
On his part, the chief executive of Airtel Nigeria, Mr Dinesh Balsingh, said, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for national development.
“As an organisation, Airtel is determined to build a platform for aspiring young Nigerians to learn, innovate and lead in the country’s expanding technology landscape.”
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Approval has been given to Summit University, Offa, Kwara, to operate a Campus FM Radio State, the chancellor of the higher institution of learning, Mr Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, said.
Speaking at the combined 5th and 6th convocation ceremony of the school at the Alhaja Adiat Abegbe Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, Mr Adegunwa, who doubles as the chairman of Rite Foods Limited, disclosed that the “notification was received a few days ago.”
“This development will help us reach our community more effectively and position the university as a champion of the knowledge economy.
“It will empower us to combat knowledge, poverty and the rising challenge of misinformation in society,” he noted.
He also identified investment in quality education as a catalyst for sustainable socio-economic development, adding that the dedication and financial commitment of stakeholders have continued to strengthen the university’s foundation and growth trajectory.
He appealed to well-meaning individuals to support the institution in its drive for sustainable development.
“This event marks a key milestone for our university. It honours our graduates and celebrates our shared success. An investment in knowledge pays the best dividend. The journey we have embarked upon with Summit University stands as one of the most rewarding investments.
“Our dividend from this investment is not only for today; it is also for posterity. Let us join hands to lift Summit University high, open doors to quality education, and change the world for the better,” he said.
Reflecting on the institution’s progress, the chancellor noted that the school has experienced remarkable growth since he assumed office as the pioneer chancellor in December 2023.
“Since the last convocation, undergraduate programmes have increased from eight to 16. Additionally, six academic programmes recently underwent reaccreditation, and full accreditation was secured from the National Universities Commission (NUC).
“I commend the university management, governing council, and board of trustees. The growth we see today is a testament to your hard work and strategic planning. Your commitment has strengthened the foundation of this university,” he said.
Mr Adegunwa highlighted the significant infrastructural advancement that had taken place in the University since its last convocation ceremony in 2023, adding that foundation for four major building was laid and one was already completed and ready for use while two were nearing completion.
“At this point, I sincerely appreciate Mosun Belo-Olusoga and other donors whose support continues to strengthen this university. Your generosity is a catalyst for our progress. May Almighty Allah bless you abundantly,” he said, revealing that preparations were underway for the verification of the university’s resources for new programmes in the College of Law and the College of Health Sciences.
“All documentation and agreements have been concluded, and we are hopeful that by the next convocation, both colleges will be fully operational,” he disclosed.
At the convocation ceremony, the school conferred honorary doctorate degrees (Honoris Causa) on Aderemi Muyideen Makanjuola and Lateefat Olufunke Gbajabiamila, as well as a posthumous honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration on the late Tiamiyu Adebisi Olatinwo, among other awardees.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer, Prof. Abiodun Musa Aibinu expressed appreciation to the Chancellor for donating the ongoing Senate Building project, which he said is now 30 per cent completed, noting that upon completion, the structure would significantly enhance the university’s infrastructure.
He announced that a total of 319 students graduated: 26 with first-class honours, 164 with second-class upper division, 108 with second-class lower division, 25 with third-class, and one with a pass.
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