Bill For Gifted Centres Scales Second Reading At House Of Representatives

By Ayodele Oni

A Bill for an act to establish the Gifted and Talented Centres in the  six Geo-Political  Zones in Nigeria; and for Related Matters has scaled second reading at the House of Representatives.

According to the sponsors, the bill aims to establish legally-backed Gifted and Talented centres in each of the six geo-political zones in Nigeria, to nurture exceptionally talented students and provide the necessary support and resources for their development.

Sponsors of the bill are Akintunde Rotimi,Jr., Benjamin Okezie Kalu Julius Ihonvbere, Sada Soli, Mark Bako Useni and Tanko Adamu.

They observed that the Federal Ministry of Education currently runs a Gifted and Talented Centre in Suleja, but it lacks the legal backing needed for adequate funding and support.

Stressing urgent necessity for the Bill, they explained that the current educational system often fails to meet the uniqueness of gifted children, leaving them unchallenged and uninspired.

“Establishing specialized academies can  help nurture and develop the intellectual potential of these children, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s intellectual second landscapes intellectual and economic landscape.

“Ensuring gifted children have their sources and environment to reach their full potential is crucial for national development.

“These academies will cultivate future leaders, inventors, and innovators, moving Nigeria towards greater heights.

“The purpose of these academies is to provide fair chances to all gifted children, regardless of their background.”

The Lawmakers explained further that the selection criteria for the centres will include provisions for merit-based  to promote inclusivity, international standards and success stories.

“Many countries have recognized the importance of fostering gifted individuals through specialized institutions.

“The Centre for Talented Youth at Johns Hopkins University has nurtured numerous successful indviduals.The High-Performance Learning Programme at the Singapore American School has enabled gifted students to excel.

Other benefits as listed in the bill are provision of an environment conducive to the overall growth of gifted children and, contributing to the broader development and progress of Nigeria.

The bill contains a total of 15 sections that outline the establishment, objectives, administration, funding, and other relevant key provisions.