The Katsina State Government, through the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, has disbursed an N8.4 billion grant for the renovation of 100 secondary schools in the state.  

The event which was held in the Rimi Local Government Area (LGA) of the state involved the presentation of cheques to School Based Management Committees (SBMCs) for phase three of the project. 

Additionally, the Coordinator of AGILE, Mr. Mustapha Shehu, announced that the project includes the construction of at least 75 secondary schools, which are expected to be commissioned in August 2024.  

Shehu highlighted that since the inception of the current administration, AGILE has renovated no fewer than 388 secondary schools in the state.  

He also mentioned that an agreement was made with all benefiting schools at the state’s High Court, ensuring that the grants would be spent judiciously. 

Speaking at the event, Governor Dikko Radda emphasized that education is the cornerstone of development and the foundation upon which to build a prosperous and equitable society. 

The governor expressed its longstanding commitment to ensuring that every child in Katsina state has access to quality education. 

 He also described the AGILE project as a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the education sector. 

“Our administration has always been committed to ensuring that every child in Katsina state has access to quality education, and today’s event is one among many testaments to that commitment. 

“The AGILE project is a groundbreaking initiative designed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our education sector. 

“By providing large grants to SBMCs, we are not only empowering our schools but also enabling our communities to take active roles in the education of their children. 

“This community-driven approach is crucial for sustainable development and the long-term success of our education system,” the governor said. 

He mentioned that the disbursement of the grants marked a significant milestone and achievement in his efforts to improve the learning environment in Katsina schools. He stated that with these funds, SBMCs would be able to undertake essential projects such as the renovation of classrooms, provision of learning materials, improvement of sanitation facilities, and implementation of various programs aimed at enhancing the overall educational experience for students. He commended the dedication and hard work of the SBMCs, highlighting their commitment to the betterment of schools and ensuring children’s safety and hygiene. 

As the grants were disbursed, he urged the SBMCs to use the funds judiciously and transparently, emphasizing the importance of spending every naira in a manner that directly benefits students and improves the quality of education they receive. 

Earlier in her welcome address, the state’s Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Hadiza Yar’adua, said the disbursement was more than a financial commitment; it was a pledge to foster an environment where children could thrive, learn, and become the leaders of tomorrow. 

 Yar’adua added that the government had embarked on several pivotal initiatives to complement this grant, especially focusing on the continuous professional development of teachers. 

“Teachers are the cornerstone of our education system, and their training and retraining are paramount,” the commissioner said.