The Plateau Government on Monday, August 26, 2024, said the state has suffered recent attacks that have led to an increase in the number of out-of-school children.
The Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mohammed Nyalun, said the state is now focused on supporting vulnerable children in acquiring education to develop themselves and contribute meaningfully to the growth of their communities.
Mr Nyalun while speaking at the closing ceremony of summer classes for vulnerable children, organised by two non-governmental organisations said the support is part of efforts to assist children who have dropped out of school as a result of violent attacks in their communities.
At the event which took place in Jebbu Miango, Bassa Local Government Area, Mr said it is important for every child in the state to continue with their education.
The commissioner, who was represented by a director in the ministry, Goyomma Iliya, pointed out that the Jebbu Miango community has experienced a series of attacks in recent times, leading to a high rate of out-of-school children.
He assured the people of Plateau that the state government was determined to ensure all children of school age were allowed to acquire education.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Caroline Pangiang, appreciated the effort of the organisations towards enriching the hearts and minds of vulnerable children in displaced communities.
The commissioner, who was represented by a staff member of the ministry, Sunday Dabim, assured the NGOs of the ministry’s support in helping vulnerable children fulfil their destinies.
In addition, the Executive Director, of Army’s Child Foundation, Shuwargwe Damak, said that the foundation, in collaboration with the Claire Aid Foundation, organised the summer school programme to provide supplementary education for children in displaced communities.
Ms Damak said that underserved children in the Jebbu-Miango community received instruction in subjects like mathematics and English language over four weeks.
“They were also offered vocational training in tie and dye, and tailoring to empower them for self-sustenance.
“The goal is to provide these children with the skills and literacy needed to enhance their communication abilities and overall livelihood.
“This initiative is designed to help vulnerable children develop the skills necessary to improve their lives and continue their education,” she added.
The Director of the Claire Aid Foundation, Nenkinan Deshi, said the objective was to inspire and empower vulnerable communities with child education, advocacy, and welfare.
