The Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) has commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for approving over N3 billion to renovate and reopen 13 boarding schools across the state.
In a statement signed by Dr. Auwalu Halilu, K-SAFE’s Co-chair, the group said the decision shows a renewed interest in public education and could help reverse what it described as a pattern of school closures under the previous administration.
“This landmark decision signals a renewed commitment to revitalizing public education and reversing the troubling trend of school closures witnessed in previous administrations,” the statement read.
Most of the 13 schools affected, particularly girls’ secondary schools, were shut down by the last government. Their reopening, K-SAFE noted, is crucial in tackling the rising number of out-of-school children, especially girls in rural areas.
Dr. Halilu pointed out that civil society organisations had long called for the reopening of the schools, given their role in expanding access to education.
“K-SAFE, alongside civil society partners, has consistently advocated for the rehabilitation and reactivation of these critical learning institutions,” he said.
The group said the move could help fix damaged infrastructure and rebuild trust in the education system.
K-SAFE urged government agencies, community members, and development partners to monitor the renovation process and ensure transparency.
“Education is a right, not a privilege,” the statement added. “The reopening of these schools will serve as a legacy of hope and progress for thousands of children and youth in Kano.”
