Lagos SUBEB Trains 1,250 Teachers on Jolly Phonics Best Practices

Lagos SUBEB Trains 1,250 Teachers on Jolly Phonics Best Practices

… Programme Now Active in All 36 States and FCT

In a renewed drive to enhance literacy skills in public primary schools, the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and Universal Learning Solutions (ULS), UK, has commenced the training of 1,250 teachers on Jolly Phonics best practices. The six-day capacity-building programme, which kicked off on Monday, May 12, 2025, is aimed at equipping teachers with effective techniques in teaching reading and writing using globally accepted methods.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu — represented by the Director of Teacher Professional Development, Mrs. Babarinde Olayemi Olufunke — praised UBEC and LASUBEB for sustaining the Jolly Phonics initiative in Lagos. He noted that the programme, now in its tenth year, has significantly improved pupils’ reading, writing, and communication skills across public primary schools in the state. Dr. Shittu emphasized the interactive, multi-sensory nature of the Jolly Phonics method, describing it as enjoyable and effective for both teachers and learners.

To further enhance the programme’s impact, Dr. Shittu called for greater integration of technology into the Jolly Phonics scheme. He also advocated for continuous assessments, learner tracking, and parental involvement to strengthen literacy outcomes. On his part, the CEO of ULS UK, Gary Foxcroft — represented by Country Director, Patrick Uzu — commended UBEC for its support and reaffirmed the global recognition and effectiveness of Jolly Phonics in raising literacy standards among children.

Now implemented in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, the Jolly Phonics programme has become a cornerstone of literacy development in Nigeria’s basic education system. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the continued partnership between UBEC, LASUBEB, and ULS will further consolidate the gains made in improving the quality of literacy instruction in public schools.