By Ehis Agbon, Kaduna.
The Kaduna State Government has launched the construction of 102 new schools while commencing the renovation of 170 existing schools and learning centers across the state’s 23 local government areas as part of efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children.
The initiative is being implemented under the Reaching Out-of-School Children (ROOSC) Project, a program designed to expand access to education and strengthen learning infrastructure across Kaduna.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani said the project represents a major step in the administration’s efforts to ensure that every child in the state has access to quality education.
According to the governor, the program goes beyond infrastructure development and reflects the government’s commitment to removing the barriers that have kept thousands of children out of school.
“Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, our administration has placed education at the center of Kaduna’s development agenda because it remains the most powerful tool for social mobility, economic growth, and long-term stability,” he said.
Sani also stated that the government is working toward eliminating the problem of out-of-school children within the next year. He attributed the progress already recorded to partnerships with international development organizations, including the Islamic Development Bank, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the Global Partnership for Education, Education Above All, and Save the Children International.
The governor also commended traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners for supporting the state’s education reforms.
“With the continued support of our partners and communities, we remain committed to building an education system that leaves no child behind,” he added.
The ROOSC Project Coordinator, Mr. Ezra Angai, said the program is designed to expand equitable and inclusive education opportunities for children and adolescents, including girls and children living with disabilities.
Angai explained that the new school structures are being built with durability and climate resilience in mind.
According to him, the buildings will feature concealed roofing systems and steel trusses to reduce the risk of roof damage, while reinforced concrete structures will help ensure long-term durability.
He added that the schools will also include improved sanitation facilities and accessible infrastructure to accommodate children with disabilities, creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.
Kaduna State Commissioner for Education, Professor Abubakar Sani Sambo, praised the governor for prioritizing education and acknowledged the contributions of development partners supporting the initiative.
Beyond the ROOSC project, the Kaduna State Government has also embarked on other education reforms, including the construction of 62 new secondary schools across the state’s three senatorial zones. Work is also ongoing on an additional 50 schools to address increasing demand for educational facilities.
The government has also renovated hundreds of classrooms, supplied more than 81,000 pieces of school furniture, improved water and sanitation facilities in schools, and established vocational training centers to provide young people with practical skills.
Officials say Kaduna has recorded a significant reduction in the number of out-of-school children, which has declined from about 550,000 to 187,720 within two years.
Education stakeholders have described the new initiative as a major step toward expanding access to quality education and strengthening the state’s education system.
The Kaduna State Government says it will continue to work with partners and communities to ensure the successful implementation of the project and sustain progress in addressing the out-of-school children challenge.
