Abuja, Oct. 4, 2024 (TheGavel) – Dr. Bashir Achida, the Economic Adviser to Sokoto State Governor, announced that the state government has earmarked 30% of its 2024 budget for the education sector, surpassing the 26% benchmark recommended by UNESCO for developing countries. Achida made this statement during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Friday, emphasizing that the allocation is backed by cash and not merely theoretical.
The allocation reflects Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s commitment to enhancing access to quality education for all citizens, particularly girls. Achida highlighted that the initiative aims to improve the quality of human capital in Sokoto State, positioning them to compete on a global scale.
He underscored the importance of human capital development and the discourse surrounding girl child education, announcing the launch of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project in Sokoto. Under this project, approximately 500 schools have been constructed, and funds have been allocated to support student learning.
In a significant move, Achida noted that within the first month of his administration, Governor Aliyu paid off students’ enrollment fees owed to the West African Examination Council (WAEC) by the previous administration. Additionally, he settled an outstanding N800 million tuition fee owed to the management of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, providing relief to indigent students.
Achida also highlighted the government’s assistance to medical students studying in conflict-affected countries like Ukraine and Sudan, enabling them to complete their studies at various universities in Nigeria. The governor has also paid the counterpart funds for the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) from 2021 to 2023, which has allowed the state to fully access UBEC funds, resulting in the training of both teachers and students.
Furthermore, Achida revealed that the governor has invested over N500 million to secure course accreditation at the Shehu Shagari University of Education and the State Polytechnic. This investment has breathed new life into students’ prospects, ensuring their certificates will be recognized upon graduation.
To bolster human capital development, the state government is prioritizing technical education, engineering, and the sciences. Plans are underway to establish a University of Science and Technology, recognizing the pivotal role that science and technology play in development.
In a bid to ensure the successful execution of impactful projects in education, health, and road construction, the government is offering a 50% mobilization fee instead of the standard 30% to contractors involved in various projects. Achida asserted that no contractor has reported outstanding payments from the Sokoto government, as all projects are cash-backed. Contractors have also been given strict timelines to complete their work, despite the ongoing economic challenges facing the nation.(NAN)
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