Nationwide Push Builds Momentum for Community-Led Learning Model

Oluchi Chibuzor

Excitement is steadily mounting within education circles as a community-integrated approach to foundational learning gains traction across the country. Recently piloted in several states, this innovative model—known as the Community-Integrated Foundational Learning (C-IFL) framework—is being hailed by education colleagues and field experts as a practical solution to long-standing challenges in access and literacy among children in underserved communities.

The C-IFL model is rooted in a simple but powerful premise: leveraging existing community structures to deliver flexible, decentralized education through locally supported learning hubs. Outcomes from the model’s pilot implementation have been described as nothing short of transformative. Reports indicate a 35% drop in the number of out-of-school children in the pilot areas, alongside a commendable 28% rise in literacy and numeracy among young learners.

At the heart of this transformation is Ms. Omolora Yetunde Oni—an experienced education strategist and thought leader in foundational learning. Through her leadership in developing and scaling the model, she has inspired a growing network of partners and facilitators committed to reimagining basic education. Her work with Catalyst Education Nigeria continues to deepen the model’s reach and reinforce its practical relevance.

While formal adoption at the national level is still underway, ongoing conversations among key education planners reflect growing consensus that the C-IFL model could serve as a timely and effective blueprint for systemic change. As one expert noted, “What we see here isn’t just another pilot—it’s proof of what works when communities are truly at the center of learning.”