The Chairman of the Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Alhaji Adamu Mohammed Duguri, has described the creation of community-based education centres as a key move to bring quality early learning closer to children’s homes.
Duguri, who was represented by the Director of School Services at SUBEB, Alhaji Zuhairu Usman, made this known at a stakeholders’ meeting on the establishment and sustainability of community-based childhood centres and neighbourhood primary schools held at the Ministry of Education Conference Hall in Bauchi.
He said the initiative aims to create safe, accessible, and functional schools within walking distance for every child.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Education Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, represented by the Director of Basic Education, Mrs Carisa Eyo, stated that the Federal Ministry of Education is expanding the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) framework to strengthen early childhood education nationwide.
He said the ministry is offering technical support, building capacity, and improving monitoring systems to help states implement the programme effectively.
The minister also spoke on the importance of collaboration across all levels.
He said, “We are partnering with development agencies to support state-led models of this initiative, and we call on federal, state, and local governments, traditional institutions, development partners, and communities to work together in building inclusive and sustainable educational environments for all Nigerian children.”
On his part, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Education, Dr Mohammed Lawan Rimin Zayam, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Ali Babayo, assured stakeholders of the state’s full support.
He pledged inclusive engagement with all relevant parties to ensure the project’s success.