Kaduna State Leads the Way in Reducing Out of School Children in Nigeria

Kaduna State Leads the Way in Reducing Out of School Children in Nigeria

Education remains the strongest foundation for building a peaceful, prosperous and progressive society. For many years, the challenge of out of school children has remained one of the most serious social and developmental issues confronting Nigeria, particularly in the northern region. Millions of children who should have been in classrooms were instead found on the streets or engaged in activities that offered them little opportunity for a better future. However, in recent times, Kaduna State has begun to rewrite this narrative through bold reforms and deliberate policies under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani.

Since assuming office in May 2023, Governor Uba Sani has demonstrated a clear commitment to ensuring that every child in Kaduna State has access to quality education. His administration understands that the issue of out of school children is not just an educational problem but also a social, economic and security challenge. By addressing the root causes of the problem and investing heavily in the education sector, Kaduna State has recorded one of the most remarkable reductions in the number of out of school children in Nigeria.

Before the current administration came into office, Kaduna State had an estimated 680,000 to over 760,000 children who were out of school, a situation that required urgent and decisive intervention. Within a relatively short period of implementing strategic reforms, the administration of Governor Uba Sani has succeeded in returning over 300,000 children back to school, drastically reducing the number of children outside the formal education system.

One of the key steps taken by the government was the expansion of educational infrastructure across the state. Recognizing that lack of nearby schools discouraged many parents from enrolling their children, the Kaduna State Government embarked on an ambitious programme of building and upgrading schools. As part of this effort, the government constructed over 60 new secondary schools across the state and built more than 2,300 new classrooms in primary schools. These investments have significantly improved access to education, especially for children living in rural and underserved communities.

In addition to building schools, the government also focused on improving the learning environment in existing institutions. Many schools across the state were renovated and equipped with new furniture to ensure that pupils learn in safe and comfortable conditions. Water facilities, sanitation systems and other essential infrastructure were also provided in many schools to create a healthy learning atmosphere for students.

Another major factor that has contributed to the reduction of out of school children in Kaduna State is the provision of learning materials and financial support for pupils from poor families. The government distributed hundreds of thousands of textbooks, writing materials and school uniforms to pupils across the state. This intervention removed some of the financial burdens that prevented many parents from sending their children to school.

Teacher recruitment and training have also been given serious attention. The administration recruited thousands of qualified teachers to fill the gap in many public schools, particularly in rural areas. In addition, training and capacity building programmes were organized to improve the quality of teaching and ensure that students receive the best possible education.

The government has also ensured that its educational reforms are inclusive. Special attention has been given to vulnerable groups such as girls, children from poor households and those living in remote communities. By working closely with development partners and community leaders, the government has been able to mobilize communities to support school enrolment and ensure that children remain in school.

Security improvements across Kaduna State have also played a significant role in bringing children back to the classroom. In the past, insecurity forced many schools to shut down, particularly in some rural communities. With the gradual restoration of peace and stability in many parts of the state, parents now feel more confident sending their children to school.

The impact of these reforms is already visible. School enrolment across Kaduna State has increased significantly, while the number of children roaming the streets without access to education has been drastically reduced. Educational outcomes have also improved, with better academic performance recorded in public examinations.

What Kaduna State is witnessing today is the result of purposeful leadership and a genuine commitment to human development. Governor Uba Sani has demonstrated that when education is placed at the centre of governance, real and measurable progress can be achieved. By investing in schools, teachers and learning materials, the administration is laying the foundation for a generation of educated and productive citizens.

The reduction in the number of out of school children in Kaduna State is not only a major achievement for the state but also an important contribution to the national effort to address the education crisis in Nigeria. It serves as a clear example of how visionary leadership, community participation and strategic investment can transform the education sector.

As Kaduna State continues on this path of educational reform, the future of its young population appears brighter than ever. Thousands of children who once faced an uncertain future are now seated in classrooms, learning, dreaming and preparing themselves to become responsible citizens and future leaders.

This remarkable progress deserves recognition and commendation. It reflects the unwavering determination of Governor Uba Sani to build a Kaduna State where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.

Suleiman Abubakar, Kinkinau