UNICEF Advocates for More Investment in Early Education

UNICEF, represented by Dr. Karanv Singh, has urged state governments in Katsina, Kano, and Jigawa to prioritize and increase budgetary allocations for early childhood education (ECCD). This call was made during a two-day media dialogue aimed at strengthening access to quality education in the region.

Dr. Singh highlighted that significant investment in early childhood education is crucial for enhancing school readiness, reducing dropout rates, and improving overall academic performance. He noted that Katsina and Jigawa states currently have zero budgetary allocations for ECCD, while Kano has allocated only two percent over the past three years.

The article also mentions that Jigawa has 2,865 ECCD teachers, with a concerning pupil-to-teacher ratio of 59:1, while Kano and Katsina report even higher ratios of 271:1 and 281:1, respectively. Hajiya Hadiza Umar Namadi, the First Lady of Jigawa, commended UNICEF's support and reiterated the commitment to improving educational access and quality across the states.