The Bauchi Local Government Area in Bauchi State has intensified efforts to increase school enrollment and safety in schools.
The Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Mahmud Baba-Maaji made this announcement at a Stakeholders meeting on Enrollment Drive Campaign (EDC) in Bauchi on Tuesday.
He said the council has taken concrete steps to provide basic infrastructure, books, and security measures to schools under the Safe School initiative.
“This includes renovating classrooms, providing desks and chairs, and installing security mechanism alarms,” he said.
Baba-Maaji emphasised the need for communities to take ownership of schools and protect them against vandalism, saying
“Our schools are our collective responsibility, and we must work together to ensure they remain safe and conducive for learning.” The Chairman said.
Baba-Maaji pledged to prioritize education and reduce the number of out-of-school children in the area.
He noted that the council would work closely with stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and community leaders, to achieve this goal.
Earlier, UNICEF Enrollment Officer Alhaji Saleh Mohammed commended the council’s efforts and urged them to step up enrollment policies and address school dropout challenges.
He emphasised the need for safe and secure learning environments, saying “schools should be havens for children, where they can learn and grow without fear of harm or violence.”
Alhaji Nuru Jumba, District head of Bauchi called for proper supervision and maintenance of school properties, expressing concern over the lackadaisical attitudes of school management and teachers.
He noted that the council would work to address these challenges and ensure that schools are well-maintained and conducive for learning.
