A tuition-free digital school has opened in Ewatto, a rural community in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State, offering a new model of basic education for children in underserved areas.
Known as Equity Learning Academy (ELA), the school is fully powered by technology and designed to support pupils from low-income backgrounds through a digitally driven learning environment.
ELA operates using the GradeX school management platform, which automates key aspects of school administration. These include digital attendance tracking, personalised lessons, real-time assessments, and efficient meal distribution. Parents also receive daily digital reports, providing real-time updates on their children’s academic progress and general well-being.
At the official launch, Dr. Friday Airhia, founder of the academy, alongside his wife, Prof. Bosede Airhia, co-founder, emphasised the potential impact of the initiative.
“We are providing a comprehensive digital learning ecosystem that rivals the best private schools in Nigeria,” Dr. Airhia said. “Through GradeX’s Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered analytics, every child, from Kindergarten 1 to Basic 1, receives a free laptop and lessons tailored to their individual learning pace.”
The launch ceremony was attended by the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Emmanuel Iyamu, who presided over the event and commended the initiative for its innovative approach to integrating technology into education.
ELA’s opening marks a notable step in the ongoing effort to expand access to quality education in rural communities and showcases the role of digital solutions in bridging the educational divide across Nigeria.
