Equity Learning Academy Pioneers Tuition-Free Digital Education in Nigeria

In Ewatto, a rural community in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State, an extraordinary educational experiment is unfolding. Equity Learning Academy (ELA) has opened as Nigeria's first tuition-free digital academy, powered entirely by technology and potentially reshaping education delivery for the nation's most vulnerable children.

ELA integrates GradeX School Management Technology, a platform automating nearly every aspect of school operations. Digital attendance recording, personalized lessons, real-time assessments, and efficient meal distribution all run through this system. Parents receive instant updates on their children's progress through daily digital reports.

"We're giving the children a complete digital ecosystem that rivals the best private schools in Nigeria," explains Dr. Friday Airhia, who co-founded the academy with his Wife, Professor (Mrs.) Bosede Airhia. "Through GradeX's AI-powered analytics, every child from Kindergarten 1 to Basic 1 receives a free laptop and lessons tailored to their learning pace."

Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Emmanuel Iyamu, presided over the official launch, praising it as "exactly the kind of private sector innovation that complements government's mission of universal quality education." The model demonstrates how private sector innovation can bridge educational gaps across Nigeria's 774 local government areas.

The academy operates on uninterrupted solar power, ensuring constant electricity for computers, projectors, and audiovisual learning aids. A 24-hour Wi-Fi connects students to global resources, while recreational facilities encourage holistic development. Clean water, free daily meals, free uniforms, textbooks and back packs, as well as modern classrooms, fully stocked digital Library and IT-trained teachers create a nurturing learning environment.

Established through Shekinah Mentors International Initiative with donor support, the founders emphasize the need for continued backing to expand the project.

"This is only the beginning," said Professor Bosede Airhia. "With more partners, we can replicate this model in other rural communities and give more children fair access to quality education."

As Nigeria addresses systemic educational challenges, ELA proves that innovation, technology, and philanthropy can deliver life-changing results. By combining free access with cutting-edge digital tools, the academy sets a blueprint for transformative education reaching underserved communities potentially sparking a nationwide movement redefining 21st-century rural education access.