The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming education through a series of reforms aimed at improving learning standards, increasing school enrolment, and reducing the number of out-of-school children across the state.

This was disclosed during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting focused on developing a comprehensive 10-year education sector plan for Kano State. The initiative is expected to provide a long-term roadmap for addressing key challenges affecting education and ensuring sustainable improvements in the sector.

Speaking at the event, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Education Reform, Haladu Muhammad, described the education system inherited by the current administration as one facing significant challenges that required urgent intervention.

According to him, the state government responded by declaring a state of emergency in the education sector and committing substantial financial resources to support its recovery. He noted that education has consistently received more than 30 percent of the state budget over the past three years, reflecting the administration’s determination to improve educational standards.

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the workforce in schools, the government has recruited approximately 16,000 additional teachers. This has increased the state’s teaching workforce to nearly 60,000 educators, helping to improve the teacher-to-student ratio and create better learning conditions for pupils and students.

The proposed 10-year education sector plan will focus on expanding access to education, improving learning quality, strengthening accountability, upgrading infrastructure, and promoting skills development. Officials say the plan is designed not only to get more children into school but also to ensure they remain in school and receive quality education.

A key aspect of the strategy is tackling the challenge of out-of-school children, which remains one of the most pressing educational issues in northern Nigeria. The government also plans to expand non-formal education opportunities to provide learning pathways for children who may not be able to access conventional schooling.

Representatives of the United Nations Children’s Fund emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving these goals. The organization stated that it is working closely with education stakeholders in Kano to develop a practical and effective 10-year strategic plan, supported by a three-year implementation framework.

According to UNICEF officials, the overall objective is to ensure that every child has access to quality education while introducing proven global learning practices that can improve educational outcomes in the state.

Also contributing to the discussion, representatives of the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration stressed the need for realistic and implementable solutions to educational challenges. They noted that the proposed plan is intended to serve as a practical roadmap that prioritizes access, accountability, effective management, and improved learning outcomes.

Education stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that the long-term strategy will help strengthen the education sector, reduce the number of out-of-school children, and equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed for future opportunities.

As Kano State continues its education reform efforts, the success of the proposed plan could serve as an important model for other states seeking sustainable solutions to educational challenges in Nigeria.