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HomeArticleYobe Emerges as Nigeria’s Model in Foundational Education – Minister of Education

Yobe Emerges as Nigeria’s Model in Foundational Education – Minister of Education

Katsina state government

By Abdullahi Inuwa 

When Yobe State is mentioned in national conversations, the topics that usually dominate are its resilience in the face of insecurity and its slow but steady development. Yet, in recent times, a new narrative has begun to define the state’s reputation: education. According to Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Yobe has risen to become a role model in foundational education among sub-national governments across the country.

This recognition, which came during the Minister’s recent assessment visit to the state, did not come overnight. It is the product of deliberate policies, political will, and an unwavering commitment to transform the learning outcomes of children, especially at the primary and basic levels.

Foundational education, often described as the most critical stage of learning, sets the tone for literacy, numeracy, and overall cognitive development. Experts argue that without strong foundational skills, children struggle in higher classes and eventually face limitations in adult life.

The Minister emphasized that Yobe has “distinguished itself among states that have prioritized foundational learning.” He noted that the state government’s focus on early childhood education, teacher training, curriculum strengthening, and massive investment in school infrastructure has created a model worthy of emulation.

At the heart of this achievement is Governor Mai Mala Buni’s administration, which has consistently placed education as a cornerstone of its development agenda. Upon assuming office, Buni declared a state of emergency in education, signaling a sense of urgency in reversing years of decline and neglect.

The results are evident. From renovated classrooms across local governments to the distribution of free learning materials, Yobe has aligned itself with global education priorities while ensuring that no child is left behind. The state has also attracted national and international partnerships, bringing in resources and expertise to complement government efforts.

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Recent statistics paint a compelling picture. Enrollment rates in public primary schools have surged, with more children, especially girls, attending and staying in school. Yobe’s early-grade reading program has shown impressive outcomes, with literacy levels improving significantly compared to past years.

Teacher recruitment and training have been another area of emphasis. The state has consistently organized refresher courses and adopted technology-driven teaching methods to improve classroom delivery. By equipping teachers with modern tools and methodologies, Yobe has bridged critical gaps that once hampered foundational learning.

The Minister of Education’s commendation has elevated Yobe into the national spotlight. During his remarks, he called on other states to “borrow a leaf from Yobe’s model” by adopting similar strategies that place foundational education at the center of development planning.

He further noted that Yobe’s progress reflects what can be achieved when states work in synergy with federal education policies and global frameworks such as UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goal 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

Yobe’s transformation in education has not only been about classrooms and textbooks. The state has also invested heavily in community engagement, recognizing that parents and local stakeholders play a pivotal role in sustaining learning outcomes.

Through sensitization campaigns, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society groups have been co-opted into the education drive. This has helped to address cultural and economic barriers that often keep children, particularly girls, out of school.

Abdullahi Inuwa Social

Katsina Northwestern Nigeria

Commentator ainuwa303@gmail.com 

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