Anambra State has partnered with Edves, an EdTech platform, to power 22 pilot “smart schools”—one in each local government area with artificial intelligence in a bid to overhaul its education system.
According to a statement, the initiative is being championed by Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, which aims to incorporate AI, data analytics, and project-based learning into the state’s academic framework. The goal is to establish Anambra as a centre of excellence for digital education.
The statement noted that Edves distinguishes itself from conventional EdTech solutions by leveraging artificial intelligence to boost both teaching quality and student involvement. Through features like personalised learning, adaptive lesson plans, and predictive analytics, the platform enables customised teaching, real-time progress monitoring, and an enriched educational experience for each learner.
At the core of the Smart Schools programme is Project-Based Learning (PBL), which is designed to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities among students.
Chiamaka Nnake, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Anambra State, said, “The state’s dedication to educational innovation advanced significantly with the launch of a ‘Train the Trainer’ program, aimed at creating a lasting framework for knowledge sharing.
“Equipping educators with the necessary skills and tools, they are empowered to train their peers, thereby amplifying the reach and impact of digital literacy initiatives across Anambra’s schools.”
Nnake addressed the assembled teachers ambassadors, emphasising the importance of embracing smart learning methodologies within community schools.
In addition, she expressed the administration’s aim to offer students in public institutions educational opportunities that are equal to those available at private schools.
In addition, the AI-powered infrastructure enables real-time evaluation of students’ cognitive, emotional, and physical development. This functionality supports educators in enhancing their teaching strategies and assists policymakers in crafting data-informed decisions on education reforms.
The initiative also features key innovations such as AI-led oversight of school facilities, automated enrollment processes for pupils and teachers, digital attendance tracking, and intelligent scheduling of both lessons and extracurricular activities.
Dimeji Falana, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Edves, stressed that the collaboration goes beyond automation. He highlighted that it promotes experiential learning and the practical application of knowledge in real-world contexts.
Falana said, “This initiative empowers educators and students with tools that enhance inquiry-driven learning while ensuring secure data management and inclusive education.”
Also, the Managing Director of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Agbata, commended Governor Soludo’s commitment to educational advancement.
“The Smart Schools are a testament to his vision of making Anambra a technology-driven knowledge hub,” Agbata said.
It noted that beyond classrooms, AI-powered infrastructure enhances STEM and vocational education, adaptive assessments, and special needs learning. With 170+ interactive math and science simulations, it fosters exploration, while AI-driven monitoring supports emotional well-being.
Meanwhile, it further mentioned that AI enhances parent-school communication with real-time student performance updates, personalised learning plans, and automated notifications, fostering better support for learners.
“This initiative positions Anambra as a leader in AI-driven education, setting a model for others. By merging technology with innovation, it equips students for global competitiveness in the digital age,” it added.
Dare Adebayo, Cofounder and Chief Operating Officer of Edves, facilitated the sensitisation of the baseline assessment. According to him, a sample of students from JSS 1 to SSS 3 across the 22 smart schools has been selected and will be tested in English and Mathematics to establish a baseline for student performance.
He said this will in-turn inform education policy recommendations and interventions as it applies to each school, local government and the state at large, the report from the baseline assessment will be turned into actionable insights that will improve identified learning gaps in the state and ultimately improve learning outcomes of the state.
The baseline assessment exercise was conducted by Edves in partnership with the Anambra State Post Primary Schools Service Commission across the 22 smart schools on March 28, 2025.
