By Felix Khanoba
The Federal Government has expressed deep concerns over the 20 million out-of-school children in the country.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, who made this known on Wednesday in Abuja, called for an urgent and collaborative approach to tackle Nigeria’s educational challenges..
Speaking at Education Sector Stakeholders’ Consultative Dialogue, Dr. Alausa emphasized the need for innovation, accountability, and strategic partnerships to revitalize the education sector and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s youth.
The minister acknowledged the significant support from partners such as UNESCO, UNICEF, USAID, the European Union, the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and the Global Partnership for Education. However, he noted that current outcomes remain below expectations, urging stakeholders to redouble efforts to ensure investments yield measurable results.
Highlighting key statistics, Dr. Alausa painted a sobering picture of the education sector where 20 million children remain out of school, with nearly half having never attended school, and learning poverty reaching alarming levels.
These challenges, he said, compounded by a rapidly growing population projected to hit 350 million by 2050, underscore the urgent need for innovative solutions.
Dr. Alausa harped on the need for all stakeholders—government bodies, development partners, the private sector, and civil society—to embrace a collaborative spirit.
“Education is not just an investment in our children; it is the foundation of our nation’s future. With dedication, innovation, and strategic action, we will transform Nigeria’s education landscape,” he said.
Earlier, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, stressee the importance of synergy to overcome challenges such as infrastructural decay, inadequate funding, and teacher capacity development. She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to achieving inclusive, quality education as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Representatives from UNESCO, UNICEF, USAID, the European Union, the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) attended the event.
