Security implications on education institutions revealed through joint UNICEF and Niger government report
In a significant move towards addressing the challenges faced by the education sector in Niger State, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Niger State Ministry for Basic and Secondary Education have unveiled a comprehensive report on the impact of insecurity on education in the state. The report was presented in Minna on Wednesday.
The study, which was conducted over a period of five years from 2020 to 2025, collected data from 20 schools in Shiroro, Munya, and Rafi Local Government Areas. The key findings revealed that banditry and kidnapping are the most prevalent forms of insecurity in the state, with over 370 incidents reported during the period under review.
As a result, out of 45 secondary schools shut due to insecurity, 33 have been reopened while 12 are yet to be opened. Regrettably, 27 learners and 4 staff were abducted, and one learner was tragically killed during this period.
The report offers evidence-based insights into the human, social, and economic consequences of ongoing insecurity. It highlighted that 83.7 per cent of students struggle to concentrate due to anxiety over potential security incidents. Moreover, 50 per cent of teachers in Rafi and 34.6 per cent in Munya reported that their lessons and examinations are frequently cancelled due to insecurity.
To address these issues, the study recommended several measures. These include upgrading infrastructure in schools, setting up an early warning system, training teachers and older students in emergency response, and supporting community-based learning spaces. Additionally, the report stressed the importance of education in addressing insecurity.
In response, the state government has shown its commitment to ensuring every child has access to safe, inclusive, and quality education. As part of this commitment, the stakeholder committee for school safety and education reform has been created by the state government across the 25 local governments. The committee will work towards implementing the recommendations outlined in the report.
The report also emphasizes the need for support for livelihood recovery and social protection by tackling the root causes of insecurity through economic development and social welfare for conflict-affected households.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in the state, Dr Hadiza Mohammed, expressed her concern over the impact of insecurity on education in the state. She appreciated UNICEF for their unwavering support for the study and the broader education sector.
In a statement, the developers of the report, the Center for Human Rights and Democracy, expressed hope that the findings and recommendations would guide the state government and other stakeholders in their efforts to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for all students in Niger State.
The reopening of schools and the creation of the stakeholder committee are positive steps towards addressing the impact of insecurity on education in Niger State. However, much work remains to be done, and the report serves as a roadmap for the future. The state government, UNICEF, and other stakeholders must work together to ensure that every child in Niger State has the opportunity to receive a quality education.
Read also:
- Postpartum Period and Gestational Diabetes: Does it Persist?
- Controlled spree of Legionnaires' disease among Harlem residents ceased, city health authorities confirm; however, locals push for increased openness and information disclosure
- Transform City for the Better
- Prostate Cancer Examination Guidelines, Outcomes, and Financial Aspects
