A high-level dialogue aimed at addressing challenges confronting girl-child education in Kaduna State has been held in Kaduna, with stakeholders calling for increased financing, gender-responsive policies, and stronger citizens’ participation in budgeting processes.
The meeting, organised by YouthHubAfrica with support from the Malala Fund, brought together representatives from the Kaduna State Government, the State House of Assembly, the Ministry of Education, civil society organisations, development partners, students, and the media.
The dialogue focused on improving education financing, strengthening gender responsiveness, and deepening citizens’ engagement in budgeting across the state. It also provided a platform to examine gaps in funding, transparency, oversight, and inclusiveness, while mobilising collective action towards a more equitable and accountable education system.
Stakeholders, in separate contributions, stressed that improving access, quality, and equity in education requires not only sound policies but also effective implementation and sustained political will.
Chairman, House Committee on Education, Mahmud Lawal, said the legislature remained committed to addressing critical challenges in the sector.
“We are determined to continue supporting policies and interventions that will improve learning outcomes, including tackling issues such as inadequate hygiene facilities, insecurity, and shortage of learning materials,” he said.
Similarly, Chairman, House Committee on Information, Henry Mara, reaffirmed the Assembly’s resolve to ensure adequate oversight and sustained investment in education.
“The legislature will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that budgetary provisions translate into tangible improvements in schools across the state,” he noted.
In their remarks, the Executive Director of YouthHubAfrica, Rotimi Oluwanle, and Gbemisola Joel Osoba commended Kaduna State for its commitment to education funding.
“Kaduna State has shown encouraging political will by allocating an average of over 26 per cent of its annual budget to education. This is a strong foundation for improving education outcomes, especially for the girl-child,” they said.
They also expressed appreciation to participants for their contributions towards advancing girl-child education in the state, urging sustained collaboration to achieve lasting impact.
