The Zamfara State government has procured and distributed 408,137 teaching and learning materials to public schools across the state.
Governor Dauda Lawal, who officiated the distribution, explained that this initiative was a collaboration between the state government, the National Universal Basic Education Commission, and UNICEF. He recalled inheriting a collapsed system and stressed that “the best way to develop the state is to invest in the education sector.”
Governor Lawal stated, “The most effective way to restore Zamfara is to invest in the minds of our people.” He expressed pride in this intervention, saying, “Today, as part of this commitment, I am pleased to announce the distribution of 408,137 teaching and learning materials procured directly by the Zamfara State Government. This is one of the largest single investments in instructional resources our state has ever witnessed.”
The Governor emphasised the importance of providing adequate resources, noting, “It reflects our conviction that teachers cannot succeed without the right tools, and pupils cannot learn without adequate materials.”
Acknowledging partners’ roles, Lawal added, “We acknowledge with gratitude the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) partnership, which has provided 77,609 teaching and learning materials to complement our state government’s initiative. Their contribution is a reminder that development is best achieved when governments at different levels work in synergy, united by the common good of the people.”
He further thanked UNICEF for their vital contribution of 5,000 Climate Change and Education Early Warning Handbooks, which will help equip children with essential environmental knowledge and adaptation skills amid global climate change challenges.
The Governor praised educators, stating, “I must commend our teachers because no investment in materials can substitute for the dedication of a teacher who inspires students daily. These resources will be meaningful only if effectively used by passionate educators.”
Governor Lawal called on parents and guardians to actively participate in their children’s education: “Education starts at home, where discipline and guidance lay the groundwork for success. Parents should regularly visit schools to ensure their children attend and perform well academically.”
In a vote of thanks, the Executive Chairman of Zamfara State’s Universal Basic Education Board, Professor Nasiru Anka, lauded Governor Lawal’s relentless efforts to revive education in the state. He also commended donor agencies for their ongoing support and urged parents to ensure regular school attendance and teachers to remain dedicated to their duties.
It can be recalled that on July 17, Lawal launched a conditional cash transfer program benefiting 8,225 secondary school girls across the state’s 14 local government areas.
Each beneficiary received an initial ₦40,000, with additional payments totalling ₦60,000 per academic session to support their education.
The ₦322 million initiative targeted vulnerable and economically disadvantaged households. Governor Lawal emphasised that the program aligned with his administration’s focus on education, social protection, and inclusive development. He also flagged off a Community Revolving Fund to support grassroots environmental and economic projects in selected localities.
This large-scale distribution and related initiatives underscore Zamfara State’s commitment to reviving its education sector, which had faced significant challenges in recent years.
The PUNCH
