Follow Us on Google
By Adamu Muhammed
In has never pretended about his concerns about the myriad of challenges facing the northern regions, particularly Kaduna State, where he is serving as the governor. The escalating number of out-of-school children in Kaduna State has emerged as a significant concern, one that Governor Uba Sani is tackling head-on. The governor’s administration has recognized the critical implications of this issue, not only for Kaduna’s development but for the broader socio-economic progress of Northern Nigeria. Through proactive measures and strategic reforms, Governor Sani is creating a pathway to an inclusive and equitable educational system, ensuring that no child is left behind.
In his address at the recent launch of the Reaching Out-of-School Children (ROOSC) Startup Workshop, Governor Sani described the growing population of out-of-school children as a threat to the state’s developmental aspirations. His administration has made education a cornerstone of its agenda, recognizing it as a catalyst for economic empowerment, social cohesion, and sustainable development.
The governor’s deep concern stems from the reality that Kaduna State, like much of Northern Nigeria, faces systemic educational challenges, including insufficient infrastructure, teacher shortages, and socio-economic barriers that marginalize vulnerable populations. For Governor Sani, tackling these root causes is essential to reversing the trend and unlocking the potential of thousands of children excluded from the education system.
The administration of Governor Sani has identified several critical factors contributing to the out-of-school children crisis in Kaduna, including lack of infrastructure for many children, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This geographical disadvantage often forces families to choose between unsafe commutes and forgoing education altogether.
Another challenge is the shortage of qualified teachers. Even when schools exist, the absence of adequately trained teaching staff undermines the quality of education, leading to disengagement among students and parents.
Economic hardships compel families to prioritize survival over education, with children often engaged in labor to support household income. Marginalized groups, including children with disabilities, face additional barriers to accessing education.
To address the lack of infrastructure, the Kaduna State government has embarked on an ambitious school construction program. Under Governor Sani’s leadership, 62 new secondary schools have been built across the state, comprising: 39 junior secondary schools and 23 senior secondary schools.
These schools are strategically located across the state’s three senatorial zones, ensuring that education reaches even the most remote communities. The initiative not only reduces overcrowding in existing schools but also removes physical barriers that previously prevented children from attending school.
By bringing education closer to the people, this infrastructure expansion lays a solid foundation for long-term improvements in educational access and equity.
Equally, recognizing the pivotal role of teachers in delivering quality education, Governor Sani’s administration has prioritized the recruitment of qualified educators. Recently, 2,000 new teachers were hired and are set to be deployed to the newly constructed schools.
Beyond recruitment, the administration emphasizes continuous professional development to ensure that teachers are equipped with modern pedagogical tools and techniques. By fostering a culture of excellence among educators, the government aims to improve learning outcomes and create an environment where students can thrive academically.
The Governor’s flagship strategy for inclusion is the Reaching Out-of-School Children (ROOSC) initiative, a program designed to address the unique needs of children excluded from traditional schooling systems. ROOSC aims to provide alternative educational pathways for: Children in remote and underserved areas, those with disabilities and children engaged in labor or socio-economic activities.
Through tailored solutions, such as flexible schedules, mobile learning centers, and community-based education programs, ROOSC seeks to integrate out-of-school children into the formal education system.
State Coordinator Ezra Angai highlighted the program’s mission to build an equitable education system, ensuring that no child is left behind. By focusing on inclusion and adaptability, ROOSC sets a new standard for educational reform in Kaduna State.
Governor Sani’s administration is committed to creating a truly inclusive education system. A critical aspect of this vision is addressing the needs of children with disabilities, who often face multiple layers of exclusion. The government is working to make schools more accessible and is introducing specialized support programs to ensure that children with disabilities receive the education they deserve.
This focus on inclusivity reflects Governor Sani’s belief that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has a right to education. By embracing diversity and breaking down barriers, Kaduna State is setting a powerful example for other regions grappling with similar challenges.
The Governor believes that collective actions are needed to tackle the out-of-school children crisis. He recognizes that sustainable change requires the involvement of various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, non-government organizations and the private sector.
This collaborative approach aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Governor Sani’s administration is not just building schools but creating an ecosystem where every child can succeed.
The steps taken by Governor Sani’s administration to combat the out-of-school children crisis are transformative. By addressing systemic challenges, the government is laying the groundwork for a brighter future for Kaduna’s children.
Governor Uba Sani’s exemplary leadership offers a blueprint for addressing similar educational challenges across Northern Nigeria. His administration’s focus on infrastructure, teacher quality, and inclusivity demonstrates that meaningful change is possible when education is prioritized.
By tackling the root causes of the out-of-school children crisis, Kaduna State is positioning itself as a leader in educational reform. The success of these initiatives will not only transform the lives of thousands of children but also inspire other states to adopt innovative and inclusive approaches.
Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to addressing the out-of-school children crisis reflects his deep understanding of the transformative power of education. Through bold initiatives like school construction, teacher recruitment, and the ROOSC program, his administration is making significant strides toward building an inclusive and equitable education system.
These efforts underscore the governor’s vision for a Kaduna State where every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. As the state continues to implement these reforms, it sets a powerful example for the entire region, proving that education is the key to unlocking a brighter, more inclusive future.
• Muhammed writes from Kaduna State
