The Kano State Government, in partnership with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has commenced the development of a comprehensive 10-year education strategy aimed at addressing learning challenges and improving educational outcomes across the state.

The initiative includes the creation of a three-year operational framework designed to support the implementation of key educational reforms. Known as the 2026–2035 Kano State Strategic Education Sector and Operational Plan, the programme seeks to reduce the number of out-of-school children, improve access to quality education, and strengthen the overall education system in Kano State.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ consultation meeting, the Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, Karanveer Singh, emphasized the importance of the initiative in tackling one of Nigeria’s most pressing educational challenges—the high number of children who are not enrolled in school.

According to Singh, education remains the foundation of national growth and development. He noted that ensuring children have access to quality learning opportunities is essential for building a productive and prosperous society.

He explained that the strategic and operational plans are designed to help Kano State make significant progress in expanding educational access while improving the quality of teaching and learning. He added that UNICEF is working closely with the state’s Ministry of Education, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and other stakeholders to strengthen capacity and enhance educational delivery.

Singh further stated that UNICEF is introducing global best practices and supporting schools with teaching and learning resources that can improve classroom experiences for both teachers and students. He reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting efforts that ensure every child has the opportunity to receive an education.

“The goal is for every child to be in school,” he said, stressing that education remains one of the most effective tools for economic development and social progress.

Also speaking at the event, Haladu Mohammed, Technical Adviser to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Education Reform, reaffirmed the Kano State Government’s commitment to transforming the education sector. He pointed to the government’s significant investments in education and the declaration of a state of emergency in the sector as evidence of its determination to drive meaningful change.

A representative of the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), Lara Ogunsola, explained that the institute is providing technical support for the development of the plans in collaboration with UNICEF. She assured stakeholders that the final document would be practical, achievable, and sustainable rather than merely serving as a policy document.

Civil society organisations are also contributing to the planning process. Auwalu Halilu, Co-Chair of the Kano State Accountability Forum on Education, noted that community-based groups are providing grassroots perspectives to help ensure the plans effectively address the realities and challenges facing schools and learners across the state.

Education stakeholders believe that the successful implementation of the proposed strategy could significantly improve school enrolment, learning outcomes, and educational opportunities for thousands of children in Kano State over the next decade.