The Chairman of the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB), Malam Muhammad Baba Ibrahim, emphasized the critical importance of investing in children's education, likening it to investing in the future. He highlighted that today's children will become active members of society in the future.
Addressing education stakeholders during a school enrollment campaign tour to Borgu, Agwara, Kontagora, and Mariga local government areas, the Chairman underscored the new policy making basic education not only compulsory but also inclusive. He assured that no child would be left behind, regardless of their physical condition.
Malam Ibrahim explained that education relies on a tripod: the government (including managers and school administrators), parents, and children. He stressed that a mutual understanding between the government and parents is essential to mold children's minds towards productive activities.
He further stated that education is so vital that everyone must contribute to its development. He warned that failing to provide the right education to children would lead to future problems.
The Chairman revealed that there are over 3,000 basic schools under NSUBEB, many of which require attention. He assured that while they aim to give all schools a facelift, they will proceed carefully to ensure the work stands the test of time.
Malam Ibrahim also mentioned that the state government is committed to repositioning basic education but needs the support of parents and other stakeholders. He urged community members to take ownership of educational facilities and ensure their maintenance.
He announced that the Governor has approved a gap analysis of teachers under the board to fill vacancies with qualified teachers. Future recruitment will be community-based to ensure teachers are recruited from their residential areas for effective monitoring.
Acknowledging challenges in the education sector, particularly at the basic level, Malam Ibrahim insisted that these challenges should not deter efforts to improve education, as inaction would have grave consequences.
He called for the support of all stakeholders, noting that efforts are already underway to improve teachers' welfare and make the teaching profession more respected and attractive.
Hajiya Maimunat Tahir Ibrahim, the State Coordinator of the Adolescence Girl Initiative for Learning Empowerment (AGILE), highlighted the project's partnership between the government and the World Bank to support girl child education. She explained that the project aims to ensure girls receive at least a senior secondary education, providing school bags, sandals, writing materials, and cash support to less privileged girls' parents.
She also mentioned that the AGILE project will upgrade over 500 secondary schools in the state, urging parents to seize this golden opportunity to educate their daughters.