• Governor AbdulRazaq lauded for investment in Education
From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s investment in the KwaraLEARN initiative has achieved significant milestones as the program marks its second anniversary.
According to Mrs. Laide Abel, Managing Director of KwaraLEARN, the number of pupils enrolled in the program has surged from 120,000 to 180,000 in two years.
KwaraLEARN, which stands for Kwara State Leading Education Achievement and Reform Now, leverages advanced technology to enhance teaching and learning in primary schools.
At a recent stakeholders’ retreat in Ilorin, Abel highlighted that the program has boosted literacy and numeracy skills among students by over 50%.
The retreat, attended by prominent figures including Hon. Muhammed Baba Salahu, Chairman of the House Committee on Education, and other key officials, provided a platform for reviewing the program’s progress.
She reported a significant reduction in the number of pupils struggling with basic literacy and numeracy, and a notable increase in school enrollment.
“Since the program’s inception, we have seen remarkable improvements. Over 50 percent of students who previously struggled with reading and numeracy have shown progress. Enrollment has risen to over 180,000, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness and acceptance,” Abel stated.
Hon Mohammed Baba Salahu, praised government’s commitment to revitalizing the education sector, acknowledging the ongoing challenges, but appreciating the positive shift from previous conditions.
Sa’adatu Moddibo Kawu, Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, noted that KwaraLEARN has significantly improved learning outcomes and reduced absenteeism.
While the Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Aliyu Kora Sabi, commended the Governor for creating a supportive environment for the program, fulfilling his campaign promises and benefiting grassroots communities.
Prof. Sheu Raheem Adaramaja, Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), reflected on the successes of the program in enhancing teachers’ attendance and content delivery, and expressed optimism about further improvements.
The retreat underscored KwaraLEARN’s transformative impact on education in Kwara State and set the stage for continued progress and enhancement.