Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has joined forces with a local group in Bauchi State to address the pressing issue of out-of-school children.
The partnership aims to provide essential instructional materials to 96 public schools in the state, particularly those serving the most vulnerable communities.
Usman Yau, a representative of the group, highlighted the initiative’s goal of assisting impoverished children who are disproportionately affected by the current economic hardships in Nigeria. Poverty, he explained, has significantly contributed to rising dropout rates, even in states that offer free public education.
The group’s assessment indicates that the economic challenges have forced many parents to struggle with providing basic necessities for their children, leading to increased school dropout rates.
To mitigate this issue, the group has decided to distribute exercise books and writing materials to the most vulnerable schools in Bauchi State.
A Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) official emphasized the dire situation in rural communities, where many children from low-income families can no longer afford school supplies.
This has resulted in a significant number of children abandoning their education.
The distribution of these materials, the official noted, could significantly encourage students to remain in school.
By collaborating with local organizations, the NEDC is demonstrating its commitment to addressing the root causes of out-of-school children in the region.
This initiative represents a crucial step towards ensuring that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to quality education.
