The Jigawa state government has allocated the sum of N2.6 billion for the recruitment, induction, and training of 6,000 new teachers in the state to reduce the high number of pupils per teacher ratio.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Universal Basic Education in the state, Dr. Lawal Yunusa Danzomo, during an address presented at the state’s education reform dialogue with critical stakeholders at the Three Star Hotel in Dutse, the capital city of the state, organized by the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO).
The commissioner explained that this initiative is part of the present administration under Governor Malam Umar Namadi’s commitment to reduce the number of pupils per teacher to a minimum level.
According to the commissioner, “the state government has achieved a lot in terms of providing classrooms, seats, and other teaching and learning materials.”
Dr. Lawal Yunusa Danzomo disclosed that “Jigawa state has been receiving support from FCDO in different aspects, including Education, Health, and Good Governance, among others.”
He noted that the PLANE project has provided valuable insights and technical guidance on how the state can improve access to quality education for all children in the state.
“We have introduced a formula for recruiting temporary teachers known as J-Teach, and after one year, we will assess those who are qualified and have demonstrated a passion for the job for a permanent appointment. This process will continue until we have enough qualified teachers in our classrooms.”
“Education is one of the critical sectors in the 12-point agenda of the present government. We are ready to do everything to improve the sector, including partnering with good organizations and investing our last kobo to reform the sector for growth and sustainable development,” he emphasized.
In his address, the Senior Responsible Officer for Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) FCDO, a UK-funded project, Mr. Ian Attifield, commended the formula adopted by the Jigawa state government for the massive recruitment of 6,000 teachers in the state.
Mr. Ian Attifield said the partnership between the organization and the Jigawa state government aims to assess the impact of FCDO’s intervention in improving Foundation Skills and Quality Learning in the state.
The senior responsible officer stated that “Nigeria is still experiencing a learning crisis, and one of the most vital ingredients that any state or government can provide is qualified, motivated, and adequately supported teachers. The UK is delighted to see the progress being made across the board, under the leadership and vision of Governor Namadi.”
He noted that the formula adopted by Jigawa state for teacher recruitment will help recruit qualified teachers and those who have a passion for the job.
“The policy we have seen on the ground in Jigawa state has demonstrated the state government’s commitment to improving access to quality learning and addressing the challenges of a high rate of out-of-school children. We appreciate the effort, and we are ready to strengthen our partnership to achieve the desired goals.”
“Our intervention in PLANE also includes supporting civil societies, traditional and community leaders, and the general public to participate in supporting educational development by playing the expected roles of all state and non-state actors.”
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