By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times
The Katsina State Government has unveiled new and strategic reforms aimed at overhauling the educational system and improving standards in public schools across the state.
This was revealed by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Zainab Musa Musawa, in an exclusive interview with Journalists at her office in the State Secretariat. She outlined several key policies introduced by Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s administration to revamp the education sector.
Unified School System Through "Action Plan"
The Commissioner said the ministry has introduced a new “Action Plan” designed to standardise teaching and administration across all public schools in the state. According to her, this reform will ensure every school operates under the same structure, eliminating the disorganisation previously caused by individual school-based practices.
“We discovered that schools were operating under different systems. This action plan will unify their structure, streamline operations, and make supervision easier and more effective,” she stated.
Suspension of Lessons During Ramadan and Adjusted Academic Calendar
Mrs Musawa explained that teaching was suspended in all public schools during the holy month of Ramadan in compliance with an existing state law enacted in 2022. As a result, the second academic term, which began in January, was shortened, and examinations were held immediately after students returned from the Ramadan break.
“The government policy on halting lessons during Ramadan still stands. This is why the second-term exams were conducted right after resumption. We will now merge this period with the third term to ensure students complete the required number of academic weeks,” she said.
Digitisation of Data Collection and Monitoring
As part of efforts to improve supervision, the state government has introduced modern technology in its school monitoring system. Over 300 computer devices have been distributed for real-time reporting from schools to the ministry.
“We have developed a system where reports can be sent online directly from schools to the ministry, eliminating paperwork. This will enhance transparency and accountability,” the Commissioner explained.
First-Ever Digital Student Registration in Katsina
The Commissioner also announced the launch of the state’s first digital student registration system. Under the new system, each student will be issued a unique identification number containing their full academic and health records from primary to secondary school.
“For the first time, students in Katsina State will have digital records, including their photos, health information, and academic progress. This will help us track performance and provide better support,” she noted.
Among the newly introduced programmes is a school farming initiative tagged “From Farm to Kitchen”, which will enable boarding schools to cultivate their own food.
The Commissioner said the programme would commence this term with pilot schools selected from each of the state’s three senatorial zones. The government will provide seeds and farming tools to participating schools.
“This approach not only reduces the cost of feeding but also teaches students valuable agricultural skills,” she said.
Finally, the Commissioner highlighted the role of the Educational Resource Centre (ERC) in the state. She said the ERC is responsible for setting examination standards, evaluating teaching effectiveness, and ensuring overall quality in the education system.
“ERC will serve as the hub for managing assessments, training, and educational improvements across the state,” she added.
