Kaduna State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund have signed an agreement for a collaboration to reintegrate over 200,000 out-of-school children into the state’s education system.

At the signing ceremony on Friday in Kaduna, the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, highlighted that the initiative was under the ‘Reaching Out-of-School Children (ROOSC)’ project.

She said that the project was aimed at improving access to education and enhancing school facilities across Kaduna State.

Ms Balarabe further stated that the project would benefit about 1,273,222 primary school pupils, providing them with improved learning materials and better school infrastructure.

She added that about 36,233 stakeholders, including teachers, headteachers and local education authorities, would receive training and capacity development.

She noted, “The objectives of this project focus on equitable access and participation. We are committed to ensuring that every child accesses quality education. We are particularly targeting the out-of-school children and those with disabilities to have access to quality education as well.’’

The deputy governor, however, emphasised that the initiative would boost school enrolment, participation, and completion rates.

Ms Balarabe said, “By enhancing the quality of teaching and improving the learning environment, the project aims to equip children with the skills and knowledge they need for future success.”

She added that safe and secure learning environments were essential for children’s well-being and academic performance.

Ms Balarabe stated that the project would strengthen the efficiency of the education system through better management, stronger data systems, and improved accountability.

She acknowledged the support of international partners, including the Islamic Development Bank and the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development.

Others were the Global Partnership for Education, Education Above All and Save the Children International whose contributions made the initiative possible.

UNICEF’s Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, commended the state’s leadership in strengthening its education system.

She confirmed the successful enrolment of 49,000 children through the Nigeria Learning Passport expanding access to quality education across the state.

Ms Munduate also commended the state’s efforts in addressing literacy and numeracy challenges.

She described the recent launch of the Kaduna Literacy and Numeracy Accelerator programme as laudable.

(NAN)