ABBA ANWAR’S ACCOUNT: A BLESSING FOR KANO’S EDUCATION NARRATIVE
By Muhammad Sanusi Kiru, FCIA, former Commissioner of Education
I am delighted to reflect on the insightful narrative shared by Abba Anwar, former Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, regarding Ganduje’s policies on education in Kano State from 2015 to 2023. This account stands as a testament to the transformative and accommodative approach of Ganduje’s administration in the education sector, a period marked by remarkable strides in collaboration and development.
Anwar’s write-up beautifully highlights the collaborative spirit of Ganduje’s government, working harmoniously with various stakeholders to propel education forward across Kano State. The contributions of notable lawmakers underscore this synergy. Senator Barau Jibrin undertook massive renovation of GGSS Kabo, provided classroom blocks, teaching aids, and scholarships in his senatorial zone; he also constructed a Federal Polytechnic in Kabo. Hon. Mustapha Bala Dawaki constructed a Police boarding secondary school in Dawakin Kudu, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational facilities. Hon. Hafiz Kawu constructed a block of 6 classrooms at Hafsat Ganduje Girls Science and Technical School in Tarauni Local Government, promoting gender-inclusive education. Hon. Aminu Sulaiman Goro brought a National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) study centre to Fagge, expanding access to tertiary education. Engr. Abubakar Kabir Bichi made heavy investments in education in Bichi federal constituency, constructing many secondary and primary schools.
Senator Barau, Hon. Abba Bichi, and numerous members of the State House of Assembly and Federal House of Representatives collectively contributed to constructing thousands of classroom blocks across Kano State, epitomizing the fruitful collaboration and broad-based efforts in bolstering education infrastructure. This concerted effort underscores the positive engagement of elected representatives in addressing educational needs across the state.
A standout aspect of Ganduje’s governance was his enabling approach, allowing elected representatives ample opportunities to deliver intervention and constituency projects, thereby enriching the education landscape of Kano. This collaborative governance approach fostered an environment where stakeholders could contribute meaningfully to educational development.
In taking stock of efforts made by the administration of Ganduje, we must not forget the payment of multi billion naira liabilities of foreign scholarship inherited from predecessors, showcasing financial prudence and commitment to honoring obligations. The administration also implemented a 50% increase in local scholarships across all tertiary institutions, enhancing support for students. Foreign scholarships to France were provided for teaching staff in state-owned tertiary institutions, aiming to boost capacity and expertise. Above all, the enactment of the Free and Compulsory Basic & Secondary Education Law, 2020, stands as a landmark achievement, underscoring Ganduje’s commitment to expanding access to education. Additionally, the disbursement of N1,760,000 to Local Government Councils in 2020 for massive renovations of various primary schools in the state, particularly at the eve of resumption of academic activities after the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted responsiveness to infrastructural needs.
The initiatives likely had several positive impacts on education in Kano State. Construction of classroom blocks and facilities like the Federal Polytechnic Kabo and NOUN study centre in Fagge probably expanded access to education for students in various parts of Kano. Renovation of schools like GGSS Kabo and construction of new facilities would improve the learning environment, potentially enhancing student outcomes. Scholarships mentioned would support less privileged students, aiming to reduce barriers to education. Projects like the Hafsat Ganduje Girls Science and Technical School contribute to promoting technical skills among students.
Ganduje’s governance style, as reflected in Abba Anwar’s narrative, appears to emphasize collaboration and stakeholder engagement, working with lawmakers and other stakeholders suggesting an approach valuing partnerships in development. Allowing elected representatives to contribute projects indicates a level of decentralization and support for constituency-focused initiatives. The emphasis on constructing educational facilities points to a focus on tangible infrastructure improvements in the education sector. Views on Ganduje’s governance might differ; some highlight achievements in collaboration, while others could critique aspects like political dynamics or policy priorities.
Abba Anwar’s insightful account is indeed a blessing, illuminating the positive facets of Ganduje’s administration and its fruitful interactions with stakeholders in advancing Kano State’s education sector. As someone who has had the privilege of serving in education leadership, I appreciate the collaborative efforts that drive progress in our state’s educational pursuits.
With the update provided in this write-up, it is hoped that my brother Abba Anwar, our former Chief Press Secretary, will find time to strengthen his pen to put up more articles on the collective and individual achievements recorded during the 8 years of Ganduje administration. There is undoubtedly a wealth of experiences and successes worth sharing, which could further enrich the narrative of Kano’s development journey and inspire future endeavors.
Hon. Muhammad Sanusi Kiru, FCIA is a former Commissioner of Education in Kano State and can be reached on majidadikiru@gmail.com