The Kaduna State Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE), has reaffirmed its commitment to improving primary school learning outcomes, despite ongoing challenges with teacher absenteeism in remote areas.
Speaking at the Learning Outcomes Data Dissemination Workshop in Kaduna, organized by PLANE, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Muhammad Sani Bello at the workshop emphasized the state’s dedication to using data for educational improvement.
Represented by Deputy Director of Planning of the Ministry of Education, Mr Abbas Shehu, the Commissioner said, “We are committed to improving the quality of education in Kaduna State.”
While maintaining that data-driven decision-making is crucial for identifying areas of strength and addressing gaps, Prof Bello commended PLANE for its support in organizing the workshop, which provided a platform to review progress in improving learning outcomes.
PLANE State Team Leader Diana Agabi highlighted the initiative’s core focus on enhancing teacher capacity and providing essential learning materials. “Our focus is to improve learning outcomes from day one by equipping teachers with effective pedagogy and providing learners with books, guides, and mentorship,” Agabi explained.
Agabi, however, noted significant obstacles, particularly in the northern senatorial district.
“Low attendance and absenteeism among both teachers and learners remain critical issues,” she said.
She noted that many teachers posted to rural areas face economic hardships, including high transportation costs, limiting their ability to attend school regularly. “Some teachers can only afford to be present two days a week, leading to serious learning gaps,” Agabi added.
According to her, the irregularity in teacher attendance has eroded parents’ confidence in the education system. “When parents are unsure if teachers will be present, they often stop sending their children to school altogether,” Agabi said, calling for collective action to ensure consistent teacher presence and regular student attendance.
Agabi also highlighted on her presentation that there is an ongoing efforts to train 1,758 teachers on inclusive instruction and gender-sensitive education, the distribution of teaching materials to 698 schools, and the development of Braille resources for visually impaired learners. She further noted that the state is committed to ensuring continuous capacity building through data management training for local education officials.
Agabi concluded by urging stakeholders to take proactive measures to address these challenges. “Everyone has a role to play in ensuring a sustainable change in the education sector,” she said, emphasizing that consistent engagement and support are key to fostering long-term improvement in learning outcomes.
The workshop underscored the collaborative efforts between the Kaduna State Government and PLANE, reinforcing their shared commitment to providing quality education for all children across the state.
