Mr. Banda receiving an Award presented to UNICEF by Gov Abba Kabir Yusuf at the event

*Hails UNICEF’s support to basic education,

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Kano state Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf has hailed the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for its steady support to the growth of basic education for children in the state.

Yusuf also approved a N200 million vehicle loan for teachers in primary and secondary schools across the state.

He said the vehicle loans were granted to boost staff welfare and motivate the teaching workforce.

Governor Yusuf also presented an award to UNICEF for its support to the emancipation of children in Kano, which he said remains in line with his policy thrust.

According to him, the loan scheme for teachers is designed to assist them in acquiring vehicles to ease transportation challenges and improve their overall productivity and commitment to duty.

Governor Yusuf disclosed during the flag-off ceremony for the distribution of instructional materials to public primary and secondary schools, as part of his administration’s comprehensive education reform.

“We recognise the critical role teachers play in shaping the future of our children. This loan initiative is part of our broader strategy to support their welfare and uplift the teaching profession in Kano State,” he said.

Governor Yusuf insisted that the loan will be disbursed under transparent and flexible terms, targeting teachers who have demonstrated dedication to service in their respective schools.

Our Correspondent reports that the latest intervention added to several education-focused initiatives introduced by the Government of  Yusuf administration, including the distribution of N2.8 billion worth of instructional materials, recruitment of 4,000 BESDA staff, deployment of 17,600 school security guards, and solarisation of 200 schools with digital learning tools.

Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his commitment to improving both the infrastructure and human capital components of education, describing teachers as the foundation of lasting development.

In his remarks during the event, Mr. Michael Banda, Officer-in-Charge, UNICEF Field Office, Kano, described the occasion as historic.

According to him,  “we gather to celebrate a significant milestone in our collective effort to improve access to quality education. On behalf of UNICEF and all like-minded Development Partners gathered here, I am honoured to receive the award and to be part of this timely event.

“These books, computers and electronic gadgets represent more than just pages filled with knowledge or electronic gadgets filled with software and data, they symbolise hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for all children in Kano State.

“Education is a fundamental right, and we believe that every child, especially those left far behind, deserves access to quality learning materials and stimulating learning environments.”

Banda further stated that UNICEF and development partners working hand in hand with the Kano state government in the education sector are committed to supporting governments, schools, and communities in promoting education for all.

He added that:  “These books and electronic gadgets are a testament to our partnership and shared commitment to improving learning outcomes.

“I urge educators to use these books and other learning aids to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning in our children. To our students, I encourage you to cherish these learning aids and books, learn from them, and use the knowledge gained to shape your future. Look after them with care so that your siblings coming after you can use them as well.

“Thank you, our development partners, donors, philanthropists and everyone involved in making this possible. Together, we can create a world where every child in Kano has access to quality education.

“To His Excellency, the Kano State governor, books and electronic gadgets are perishables and require deliberate planning for periodic replenishment. Every year, we must be deliberate in our planning,  budgeting and procurement so we don’t fall far behind and compromise the quality of learning outcomes. We must be deliberate in ensuring sustained print-rich environments in our schools and our classrooms.

“Let’s work together to ensure these books are just the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and discovery.”