Gombe Launches Free School Registration to Halve Out-of-School Children by 2030

Gombe Launches Free School Registration to Halve Out-of-School Children by 2030

Gombe State First Lady, Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya, on Monday launched a free school registration campaign in Gombe Local Government Area, a bold move to tackle the state’s staggering 787,619 out-of-school children, representing nearly 20% of its four million population.The initiative, driven by the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) in partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and UNICEF, aims to cut this number by 50% before 2030. It offers free registration and school materials to children across Gombe’s 11 local government areas, targeting at least 220,000 new enrolments, with each LGA tasked to register 20,000 children.Speaking at the flag-off event, Asma’u Yahaya urged parents to seize the opportunity, emphasizing Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to child welfare through education, healthcare, and nutrition. “This programme is a lifeline for our children’s future. I call on parents to ensure their kids are enrolled,” she said.SUBEB Executive Chairman Babaji Babadidi highlighted the campaign’s focus on behavioral change to ensure pupils stay in school, complete their education, and transition to higher levels. “This is about retention and long-term impact, not just numbers,” he noted.Commissioner for Education Aishatu Maigari called the drive a pivotal step toward sustainable development, urging local government leaders to prioritize retention through secondary education. “Education is the foundation of progress. This initiative positions Gombe to bridge access gaps and empower our youth,” she said.The campaign aligns with broader efforts to address Nigeria’s education crisis, as UNICEF continues to support initiatives like curbing female genital mutilation (FGM) and advocating for global education funding. With Gombe’s bold target, the state is setting a precedent for transformative change, aiming to bring thousands of children back to classrooms and closer to a brighter future.  

Source: Gombe Launches Free School Registration to Halve Out-of-School Children by 2030

 - NigerianEye
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