The British Council, in collaboration with the Federal Government and key development partners, has reaffirmed its commitment to building an inclusive, equitable and transformative education system in Nigeria and across Sub-Saharan Africa.
This resolution was highlighted at the Language in Education International Conference 2025, which opened on Tuesday at the Abuja Continental Hotel, with the theme: “Language, Education and Inclusion: Empowering Every Learner.”
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among educators, policymakers and institutions in ensuring that every Nigerian child enjoys quality education, irrespective of background or location.
Alausa praised the British Council’s efforts through its Strengthening Teacher English Proficiency (STEP) programme, which he said has significantly enhanced the capacity of teachers nationwide.
“The task of making education inclusive requires the collective effort of all stakeholders. The Federal Government remains committed to working with partners like the British Council and others to deliver equitable learning opportunities that leave no child behind,” the Minister said.
The two-day conference, jointly organised by the British Council, UNICEF, Plan International, FCDO PLANE, Sightsavers, Save the Children, and the Sterling One Foundation, brought together policymakers, researchers, educators and development partners from around the world to discuss the central role of language in inclusive and equitable education.
Experts at the conference noted that although Sub-Saharan Africa is home to over 2,000 languages — a reflection of its rich diversity — the dominance of unfamiliar languages in classrooms has continued to hinder effective learning and participation.
Through plenary sessions, panel discussions and interactive workshops, participants explored how effective bilingual practices, technology-driven learning tools and teacher training could bridge language barriers and foster equitable education systems.
According to John Simpson, Senior Adviser, English and School Education Programme, British Council, “Language is more than a medium of education; it is the foundation of inclusion. This conference is an opportunity to reimagine education systems that reflect Africa’s linguistic and cultural diversity and ensure every child has the chance to succeed.”
Also speaking, Julian Parry, Director, English Programmes, Sub-Saharan Africa, British Council, reaffirmed the Council’s role as a reliable partner in education reform.
“The British Council works closely with governments and institutions to help them achieve their education goals. We do this by sharing insights from over 100 countries, listening to local realities, and identifying what truly works in each context,” he said.
Organisers expressed optimism that the conference would strengthen partnerships among governments, practitioners and development organisations while shaping actionable recommendations on language policy, teacher development and inclusive education practices in the region.
The Language in Education International Conference, now in its eighth edition, continues to serve as a leading platform for advancing discussions on the role of language in achieving inclusive, quality education across Africa.
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