Group partners SUBEB to train pupils on comprehension skills

A non-governmental organisation, Universal Learning Solutions (ULS), has partnered with the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) to improve the literacy skills of school children through the Jolly Player.

The project is aimed at ensuring that school children experience a high English vocabulary development, a noticeable difference in fluency in speaking English, and an increase in understanding and listening comprehension.

In a statement by the country Director of Universal learning solution, Mr. Patrick Uzu, disclosed that the Pilot study results from three Nigerian states, show significant increases in these English skills, and therefore, the impact is expected to be high in Oyo State.

Jolly player is the first media player designed to contribute immensely to the overall literacy development of school children under the Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) initiative.

Mr. Uzu explained that the Jolly player is the first media player, multi-band radio, and recorder designed and engineered for the humanitarian sector.

“This innovative tool combines these technologies in ways never before possible to deliver on-demand content anytime, anywhere,” he said.

On her part, ULS Executive Director, Mrs. Naomi Foxcroft said: “The Oyo State Jolly Player project is a fantastic opportunity for all children in Oyo State to benefit from the opportunity to develop their comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency skills to complement the already established ability to read and write.”

According to Mrs. Foxcroft, the project will therefore help increase equity and equal opportunities for all children in Oyo State.

She added that in addition to incorporating Jolly Phonics content, the Jolly Players also contain a range of story recordings taken from different sources, and recording of local English Textbooks and relevant comprehension passages.

“Jolly Phonics is now being taught in all 36 states and FCT. This is truly amazing and will help to improve the reading and writing abilities of millions of children in the years ahead,” she said.