Kaduna, PLANE Reviews Learning Outcomes, Pledges Solutions for Education Gaps
By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna
Kaduna State Government, in partnership with the UK-funded, Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) programme, on Thursday convened a one-day Learning Outcome Assessment dissemination and quarterly review meeting, highlighting both the progress and persistent challenges in the state’s education sector.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Education, Prof. Abubakar Sani Sambo, urged stakeholders not to focus solely on problems but to recognize the ongoing support from partners like the British government.
He emphasized that quality education is essential for national progress, especially in a rapidly evolving world shaped by technology and artificial intelligence.
Prof. Sambo stressed the importance of equipping students with practical skills alongside academic knowledge, aligning with national discussions at the recent Governors’ Forum National Education Summit.
He assured that issues such as teacher shortages and inadequate facilities would receive urgent attention.
Speaking on behalf of the Acting Executive Chairman of KADSUBEB, Mubarak Mohammed, Barrister Hassan Othman, highlighted that learning gaps revealed by assessments are a reflection of systemic shortcomings, not individual students.
He called on all stakeholders to use the findings to make data-driven decisions, improve teacher training, and target resources where they are most needed.
The workshop, he said, is both a “report card” and an opportunity to strengthen accountability across the education system.
In an interview, PLANE Deputy National Team Lead Mr. Samuel Achimugu pointed to ongoing challenges, including a reduced number of teachers from 10,000 to 6,000 and the need for better teaching and learning materials.
He urged government support for teacher recruitment, improved remuneration, and provision of resources such as motorbikes for school support officers.
Achimugu also assured of the expansion of PLANE’s interventions from six local government areas to the remaining 17, to enhance education delivery statewide.
PLANE plans to continue its work, helping government strengthen systems and support the upcoming World Bank-funded HOPE Programme.
Achimugu noted that if these efforts succeed, Kaduna’s learning outcomes are expected to improve significantly.
The review meeting underscored a shared commitment, using evidence to drive solutions, support teachers, and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in a modern, competitive world.
