The Katsina State Government has launched a step-down training programme for 18,000 teachers and begun the distribution of 20,000 tablets to enhance teaching and learning in the state.
The ceremony, held at the Local Government Service Commission Conference Hall, Kaita Road, was presided over by Deputy Governor Malam Faruq Lawal Jobe, who represented Governor Dikko Umar Radda.
Jobe said the initiative was part of the administration’s holistic efforts to reposition education, boost teaching quality, and prepare Katsina children for global competitiveness.
He highlighted other interventions in the sector, including the distribution of school materials and 30,000 uniforms to less privileged pupils, provision of specialised aids for schools for the blind and deaf, installation of CCTV cameras in 130 schools, and the supply of 70 motorcycles to monitoring officers to strengthen supervision, especially in rural areas.
“These are not just statistics but a strategic investment in the future of our children,” the Deputy Governor said. “By equipping teachers with modern tools and training, we are aligning our educational system with global standards.”
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Zainab Musa Musawa, described the initiative as “a significant milestone” in restoring the glory of education in the state. She thanked the World Bank, UBEC and other partners for their support, assuring that the government would sustain teacher empowerment through capacity-building programmes.
State Project Coordinator of the TESS programme, Hajiya Binta Abdulmumini, explained that 18,000 teachers will be trained by 90 master trainers who have undergone specialised training. Each participant, she added, will receive a tablet preloaded with lesson plans and digital teaching resources.
Chairperson of the Katsina State Teachers’ Association, Hajiya Rakiya Shehu, commended the government’s commitment to teachers and students, urging stakeholders to ensure the programme’s success.
The event was attended by top dignitaries, including the Chief Judge of Katsina State, Justice Musa Danladi; Commissioner for Higher, Technical and Vocational Education; Permanent Secretary, MBASE, Hajiya Ummulkhairi Ahmed Bawa; SUBEB Chairman, Dr. Kabir Magaji; Deputy Chief of Staff at Government House; CEO Continental Computers, Alh. Salisu Mamman Kadandani; senior officials and security chiefs.
