All Kaduna Children to Enjoy Free, Compulsory Primary, Secondary, Technical, Vacational Education from 2020 – Deputy Governor
By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna
Kaduna State Government has said by 2020 education will be completely free for every child in the state from completion of primary, secondary or technical/vocational education.
The State Acting Governor Hadiza Balarabe disclosed this on Tuesday during the presentation of the state 2020 budget to the state Assembly.
The state has budgeted a total estimate of N257 billion before the State House of Assembly for the 2020 fiscal year, planning to spend N44.9 billion on education.
“We have announced a commitment to expand access to education. That is why from 2020 education becomes free till the completion of secondary or technical/vocational education.
“From 2020, every child in Kaduna State is required to have 12 years of free, compulsory primary and secondary education. The bill will mandate that those that prefer vocational or technical education after completing junior secondary school would also enjoy three years of TVE.
“The education related bills signpost our commitment to the enhanced enforcement of the UBE Act, Child Welfare and Protection Law, and the Street Hawking (Prohibition) Law. Our Education Marshalls, KASTLEA and the Kaduna Vigilance Service will jointly ensure no child in Kaduna State roams the street during school hours for any reason without legal consequences for the parents or guardians.
“Technical/Vocational Education Bill will enable the conversion of our Business Apprenticeship Training Centres (BATCs) into Technical, Vocational Education and Training Colleges with boarding facilities and community-based governance framework.
Public Service Bill to entrench our reform and revitalization efforts and ensure uniformity and clarity in the administration of the State Public Service.
“An Education Bill to extend free and compulsory education to the Senior Secondary level for all students. Free education up to senior secondary level was previously enjoyed only by female students, while boys had theirs guaranteed only up to junior secondary level. The Deputy Governor added.
She said the State Universal Basic Education Bill will repeal the 2005 law to reflect lessons learnt in the implementation of the domestication of the UBE Act to ensure the elimination of Almajiri phenomenon in Kaduna State.
