Muhammad Garba
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commenced a five-day capacity-building workshop in Jigawa State to train education managers on reviewing the State Education Sector Operational Plan (SESOP), with the goal of strengthening teaching and learning across the state.
Participants at the workshop include Local Education Secretaries, Gender Desk Officers, and directors from the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).
The review process focuses on improving basic education delivery and ensuring better foundational skills for children in the state.
Speaking at the opening session, Mr. Michael Banda, Education Manager at UNICEF Kano Field Office, described the workshop as “an important step toward strengthening Jigawa State’s education sector planning and implementation framework.”
He noted that the review reflects the state government’s commitment to evidence-based decision-making, accountability, and community participation.
“Despite progress in enrolment, many children in Jigawa still face serious barriers to accessing quality education.
“Issues such as poverty, child labour, early marriage, and long distances to school continue to hinder learning. Some children attend school but do not achieve the expected literacy and numeracy levels,” Bunda said.
He added that the SESOP review offers a unique opportunity to identify challenges at the local government level and design practical, community-focused solutions.
Also speaking, Dr. David Shofoyeke, Director-General and CEO of the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA-Nigeria), said the program is jointly organized by NIEPA and UNICEF Nigeria.
He explained that the workshop involves the development of two key policy documents: the State Education Sector Strategic Plan (SESP) and the State Education Sector Operational Plan (SESOP).
“These documents form the foundation for education reforms, resource mobilization, policy alignment, and strategic investments.
“They will be tailored to the specific needs of Jigawa State to ensure inclusive and sustainable planning,” Shofoyeke said.
He emphasized that the plans would promote gender equality, disability inclusion, and climate-resilient education systems.
“Your input today will shape the future of education in Jigawa for the next decade.
“Ask questions, challenge assumptions, think inclusively, and design plans that will impact every child, every school, and every community,” he told participants.
The workshop continues through the week with technical sessions and group reviews aimed at producing actionable strategies to improve learning outcomes in Jigawa State.
