Africazine:
Kano State has made significant strides in reducing out-of-school children.
The Kano government announced an 11.3 per cent decrease in the number of out-of-school children. This achievement was highlighted by education commissioner Ali Abubakar-Makoda during the launch of learning materials distribution for 5,022 learners transitioning to formal schools under the Accelerated Basic Education Programme.
Kano’s Education Initiative Shows Positive Results
The Accelerated Basic Education Programme (ABEP) is a European Union-funded initiative implemented by Plan International in three local government areas: Nassarawa, Kumbotso, and Gwale. The program aims to integrate out-of-school children into the formal education system. Since its inception in 2024, ABEP has successfully mainstreamed 6,000 children into schools.
Commissioner Abubakar-Makoda attributed the high number of out-of-school children to population pressure and the influx of people into Kano. He praised the contributions of Plan International and other partners for their role in achieving this reduction.
Kano: Key figures on out-of-school children
- 11.3 per cent reduction in out-of-school children
- 5,022 learners receiving learning materials
- 6,000 children mainstreamed into the formal school system
Support from Development Partners is Crucial
Abubakar-Makoda urged development partners to continue their support and expand interventions beyond the current three local government areas. The advocacy and campaign officer for Plan International, Alhassan Hamza-Hussaini, emphasized the importance of addressing resource gaps, such as providing school uniforms and writing materials, to further reduce the number of out-of-school children.
Next Steps for Kano’s Education Program
- Expand ABEP interventions to additional local government areas.
- Continue distribution of learning materials to transitioning learners.
- Enhance resource provision for school uniforms and writing materials.
Kano State is making progress in education, but continued support is essential.
