Addressing Education Challenges in Katsina
In an interview, Dr. Kabir Gafiya, Executive Chairman of the Katsina State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), discussed the efforts being made to reform education, implement digital learning, and combat learning poverty in Katsina. The state has faced significant challenges due to insecurity, which has disrupted schooling in several communities. To ensure that children in conflict-prone areas continue their education safely, SUBEB collaborates with various stakeholders.
One of the primary strategies is the implementation of a Safe School Policy under the supervision of the Ministry of Internal Security. This policy aims to protect children and maintain educational continuity despite the security situation. Civil Defence Corps and Mobile Police officers are deployed to guard schools in vulnerable areas. In some instances, schools have been relocated to safer zones to prevent disruptions in learning.
Additionally, technology is being integrated into the learning process to sustain quality education. This approach not only helps keep education on track but also increases student engagement. By leveraging digital tools, the education system can adapt to the challenges posed by insecurity and other obstacles.
Improving Teaching and Learning Quality
Despite increased enrollment, reports indicate poor literacy and numeracy levels among pupils. To address this, SUBEB has taken concrete steps to improve the quality of teaching and learning. One notable initiative is the introduction of e-learning through tablets in primary schools. The government has procured approximately 20,000 tablets preloaded with curriculum and teaching materials. In the coming weeks, 18,000 teachers will be trained, each receiving a tablet to support lesson delivery.
A strategic partnership with EIDU, a global leader in education technology, further enhances these efforts. EIDU’s platform aligns with the governor’s vision of using technology to solve learning challenges. Teachers use smartphones equipped with well-researched, curriculum-aligned lesson guides, allowing them to deliver lessons more efficiently. Pupils engage with interactive learning content, making the process more enjoyable and adaptive.
The system also tracks each child’s progress in real time, providing teachers with insights into individual learning levels. This data helps identify where additional support is needed and strengthens accountability across the education system. The program has already shown promising results in selected schools, improving enrollment, retention, and attendance.
Benefits of EIDU-Supported Schools
EIDU-supported schools offer distinct advantages over traditional classrooms. Students in these schools are more attentive and actively involved in the learning process. The playful methodology encourages engagement, and many students appreciate the opportunity to use devices they might not have at home. Unlike traditional methods, where teachers dominate, EIDU allows students to take control of their learning through hands-on activities.
Teachers find the program easy to use and report higher motivation among students. The ability to monitor performance through AI-generated insights helps teachers tailor their instruction to meet individual needs. As a result, learning outcomes have improved significantly compared to traditional methods.
Aligning with State Initiatives
The state’s tablet distribution program complements EIDU’s work by providing teachers with essential tools for effective instruction. While EIDU focuses on literacy and numeracy, the state’s initiative ensures that teachers have the resources needed to support their students. Both efforts aim to address the foundational skills gap and improve overall learning outcomes.
Expansion Plans and Community Feedback
There are plans to expand the EIDU program based on its positive impact. The expansion will depend on criteria agreed upon by both parties, with a focus on reaching disadvantaged or remote areas. Teachers and communities have shown strong support for the program, with requests for it to be introduced in more schools. Parents and community members recognize the benefits of the initiative, noting increased enthusiasm among students and reduced teacher workload.
Mandate of the Katsina SUBEB
Katsina State Universal Basic Education Board is responsible for managing the affairs of all primary schools in the state—approximately 30,000 schools with over 28,000 teachers and more than two million children. SUBEB oversees school construction, procurement of instructional materials, teacher recruitment, promotions, and discipline. It also appoints education secretaries and monitors basic education from primary one to six, including early childhood education. In essence, the board manages infrastructure, personnel, and the quality of teaching in schools.
