Over 1 Million Out-of-School Children Back in Classrooms

Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, announced that over one million out-of-school children have re-entered classrooms in Nigeria over the past 20 months. This achievement was shared during a meeting with Professor Isaiah Barreto Da Rosa, the newly appointed UNESCO Country Representative to Nigeria, in Abuja.

Alausa emphasized that this development is part of the Federal Government's efforts to reform the education sector under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that nearly 6.7 million girls have benefited from initiatives aimed at improving school enrolment and retention.

Alausa called for a comprehensive approach to education that addresses the needs of both girls and boys. The education reform agenda focuses on six priority areas, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training, STEM education, and the reintegration of out-of-school children.

He also welcomed UNESCO's support in training one million in-service teachers and highlighted the importance of international partnerships in enhancing educational outcomes.