Two young schoolgirls who walk several kilometers daily to attend class in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State have received bicycles and vegetable processing machines for their parents — a gesture aimed at easing their journey and boosting their families’ income.
The support came through the Kano Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus program (Kano CARES), as part of its ongoing effort to support education — especially for the girl-child — by helping families overcome barriers that force many children, particularly girls, out of school.
The two beneficiaries, Sadiya Sulaiman and Adama Abdulmumin, are pupils of Irshadul Ibadi Primary School in Kura. They trek close to four kilometers daily, often arriving at school before anyone else.
With this support, they can now ride to school, and their mothers have been empowered with vegetable processing machines to generate income and ease pressure at home.
Speaking during the handover of the items, Alhaji Nasidi Datti Kura, Delivery Head of Kano CARES, said the initiative was triggered by a viral video that captured one of the girls arriving at school early — her commitment speaking louder than words.
“This is a sacrifice for education,” he said. “The reason we came to Kura is simple — to encourage parents to support their children. Many are trying, but they lack the means. So we came to support them, especially those whose children still show up to school despite the odds.”
He described the long treks as both inspiring and worrying, revealing that during follow-up visits, they discovered several other children — particularly girls — making similar journeys.
“We saw one girl who walks from Rakauna to school in Kura. It’s not just her; there are many like that. So we said, let’s help their parents in any way we can. We believe this is how to protect every child’s right to education.”
He called on parents to recognize that every child is a divine trust and has the right to education, health, and care.
“Our goal is not just to give bicycles or machines — it’s to help parents help their children stay in school. That’s what really matters. May God strengthen all parents for this responsibility.”
Alhaji Nasidi also praised the Governor of Kano State for backing the program and setting the tone for action.
“Our governor has made this possible. Whenever he sees a child in need, he stops to help. We are just following in his footsteps.”
Malam Umar Sani, Headmaster of Irshadul Ibadi Primary School, said the support arrived at a time when it was most needed.
“Sadiya and Adama are among our most punctual pupils. They walk close to four kilometers every day to be here — and they’re usually the first to arrive,” he said.
Hajiya Hussaina Iliyasu, Education Secretary of Kura LGA, described the initiative as unprecedented and deeply meaningful.
“Nothing like this has happened anywhere else in Kano State — only here. And it wasn’t just for show. It was based on the visible dedication of these girls. They didn’t beg for it — they earned it through hard work.”
She recounted how a community leader’s encounter with one of the girls led to her photo being printed on a poster — a moment that caught the attention of Kano CARES and led to action.
“The grinding machines were given to help the mothers make a living — not for sale — but to support their children’s education. It shows that the parents, especially the mothers, play a crucial role in ensuring the girls get to school every day.”
“These efforts are not just about bicycles and machines — they are about breaking the cycle that keeps girls out of school. They’re about showing that when a girl is determined to learn, the community must step up and stand behind her.”
