Kano, Nigeria – In a bold move to revitalize the education sector, the Kano State Government has announced the employment of 5,000 new teachers into the state civil service. Governor Abba Yusuf made this announcement on Saturday while declaring a state of emergency in education.
Governor Yusuf emphasized the critical need for quality personnel to manage public schools in the state, stating that this initiative aims to provide the necessary manpower to ensure quality education for all students.
He declared that the days of pupils receiving lessons under harsh conditions are over and pledged comprehensive rehabilitation and provision of furniture for public schools.
“The declaration of a state of emergency in education is a bold step towards addressing the challenges facing the sector. The government’s commitment to providing basic learning materials and infrastructure will go a long way in improving the quality of education in the state,” said Yusuf.
He underscored the importance of creating a conducive learning environment for every child in Kano, highlighting the severe crisis the state’s education sector faces. Yusuf painted a stark picture of a system in dire need of reform, revealing that over 4.7 million pupils are forced to sit on bare floors to learn, while 400 schools have only one teacher for all classes and subjects.
The governor also accused the previous administration of neglect, alleging that schools were closed down and vandalized, with some being converted into commercial premises. “Teachers struggle with outdated and insufficient basic learning equipment, while clean water and sanitation are lacking in many schools,” he added.
Yusuf criticized the past administration for profiting from school lands instead of investing in education, leaving behind a legacy of neglect. He promised to tackle the multifaceted problems facing public education head-on, including the shortage of qualified teachers, inadequate training programs, and the socio-economic challenges faced by students.
“It’s time for investment in public education and a commitment to providing a quality learning environment for all,” Yusuf concluded.
The governor’s declaration and the hiring of new teachers signal a significant commitment to reforming and improving the education sector in Kano State.
