Niger state government has unveiled plans for the reopening of public schools in local government areas impacted by insecurity in the state.
Speaking during the unveiling on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Hadiza Asabe Mohammed disclosed that government had resolved to upgrade security infrastructure at the affected public schools
While commending UNICEF and other partners for their technical inputs and unwavering support, the commissioner said plans have been finalized to overcome the barriers to learning caused by insecurity.
She said during her welcome address at the dissemination meeting of report on “The Impact of Insecurity on Access to Education in Niger State” held at Haske Luxury Hotel in Minna that out of the schools shut down due to insecurity, that 29 schools have been reopened with 20 renovated across the state; following damages.
While decrying the detrimental impact of insecurity on the state’s education system, she said plans are also underway to establish early warning systems in public schools around vulnerable areas.
According to her “the state government has decided to relocate many of the affected schools in high risk areas to safer areas.
“As a government, we will ensure we tackle the root causes of insecurity through social welfare programs for conflict affected households.
“Plans are underway to upgrade security infrastructure in schools and to establish early warning systems in vulnerable areas.”
Earlier, Chief of Education, UNICEF Nigeria, Vanessa Lee represented by the Education Specialist, Mr. Believe Eke, highlighted the importance of addressing insecurity’s impact on education in Niger State.
In her message, she emphasized that the study presented was aimed at providing evidence-based insights for effective decision-making and policy development to ensure quality education for children in conflict-affected areas.
In their respective remarks, Education Secretary of Shiroro LGA, Usaini Baba and that of Rafi LGA, Ahmed Madaki explained that presently, insecurity had been brought partially under control compared to what was obtained three years ago in their LGAs.
Madaki said at the peak of the banditry attacks in Rafi LGA, a total of 34 schools were shut down while 24 have been reopened, others have been relocated to safer environment.
Highlights of the meeting was the unveiling of various reports and recommendations.
News Edited by Oni Kayode Philip