Jigawa Governor announces free education up to the PhD level

Governor Umar Namadi-led Jigawa state government has announced free education for female indigenes in state-owned institutions, from primary school to PhD level.

Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof Isa Chamo, said the initiative aims to empower women through education, regardless of their chosen field of study.

According to The Punch, Chamo said lack of finance would not truncate their aspirations.

He added that Governor Namadi’s administration hoped that the initiative would encourage more girls to pursue education,

“We’re confident that this programme will have a lasting impact on the lives of our female students”

“This is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and empowering women through education. By providing free education to female indigenes, the Jigawa State Government is empowering women to take control of their lives, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.”

The Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Scholarships Board, Alhaji Sa’idu Magaji, said the board has been working on the successful implementation of the programme.

Magaji described the initiative as a product of tireless efforts.

“The board has been working tirelessly to ensure the successful implementation of this programme. We believe that education is the key to unlock the potential of our female students, and we’re committed to supporting them every step of the way,”

In 2024, Governor Namadi’s administration distributed 30,000 sets of school uniforms to senior secondary school girls in the state, Leadership reports.

Namadi said he is committed to accord special priority to girl-child education to bridge the gap in the sector.

Chamo said the distribution of the free uniform is part of government policy on promoting girl-child enrollment and retention in the schools.

The commissioner highlighted that awarded scholarships to over 10,000 girls to study at various public higher institutions across the country.

He disclosed that 121 female students have been sponsored to read medicine in Cyprus, N150 million expended for AGAIL programme, 70,000 exercise books distributed to the female students and over N1 billion spent in renovating 12 Girls Senior Secondary schools.

By Adekunle Dada

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