The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, has voiced deep concern over the increasing number of out-of-school children, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
He characterized the situation as disheartening and unacceptable, emphasizing the imperative for collective efforts from all stakeholders to address the challenges confronting Nigeria’s education sector. Dr. Sununu underscored that failure in education equates to the failure of the entire nation.
Speaking at the 2023 Bauchi Education Summit with the theme “Improving Access and Quality of Education in Bauchi State,” the minister highlighted the urgent need for concerted efforts to reverse the alarming trend.
He expressed optimism about the newly established National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children, believing it will enhance collaboration and synergy to address the issues effectively and grant Tsangaya schools the necessary recognition and status they deserve.
Dr. Sununu revealed that the Commission aims to integrate Tsangaya/Madarasa schools into basic education and called for collaboration from Ulamas and school proprietors.
He commended the proactive measures taken by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed in bridging gaps in the education sector, including teacher capacity building, recruitment of additional teachers, and infrastructure development.
The minister encouraged participants at the summit to leverage the opportunities provided by the state governor, urging them to devise practical, implementable, locally accepted, and cost-effective solutions to address the prevailing educational challenges in the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed, in his address, emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring quality education in the state.
He announced a progressive increase in budgetary allocation to education, reaching approximately 16% of the total budget for the fiscal year 2023—a record high in recent years. The governor stressed that this significant investment reflects the firm belief that a well-funded education sector is crucial for the overall development of the state.
