The Nigerian Communications Commission has commenced consultations with stakeholders on a proposed framework to enable Nigerian students and learners to access approved educational platforms and digital learning resources without paying for internet data.
The initiative, known as the Framework for Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content, aims to reduce the high cost of internet connectivity, which stakeholders say has become a major barrier to digital learning across the country.
The consultation, held on Tuesday at the NCC Annex Office in Mbora, Abuja, brought together representatives of government agencies, mobile network operators, education regulators, educational institutions, development partners, civil society organisations and other industry stakeholders to review the proposed framework before its adoption.
Under the proposal, learners would be able to access approved educational websites, applications and digital learning platforms either free of charge or through dedicated educational data bundles, subject to eligibility requirements, fair usage policies and regulatory safeguards.
The framework is also expected to establish governance mechanisms, implementation models and consumer protection measures to ensure transparency and sustainability.
