Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has voiced his concerns regarding the notably low student enrollment rates from the northern states of Nigeria into Federal Unity Colleges. He highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue to ensure these states make full use of their allocated quotas in 2024.
During a recent advocacy and sensitization visit to the Kano State Ministry of Education, aimed at encouraging greater participation in the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) and Gifted Examination for Federal Unity Colleges, Mamman’s message was conveyed by Mrs. Edith Osanyinpejun, the Deputy Director and Head of Junior Secondary Education. She shared that the National Examination Council (NECO) provided data showing a concerning trend of low enrollment from northern states in these examinations.
For instance, Kano’s enrollment figures have dramatically decreased to 574 students in 2023 from a high of 5,000 candidates when enrollment campaigns were more robust. “Kano led the northern states in such sensitization efforts, resulting in a higher enrollment rate compared to its counterparts. However, there has been a notable decrease in recent years,” Mamman remarked.
The initiative by the Federal Ministry of Education to gather stakeholders, parents, and guardians is driven by a commitment to raising awareness about the value of quality education. This is particularly crucial as the entrance exams for Federal Unity Colleges are scheduled for April (NCEE) and May (Gifted Examination).
Mamman expressed his hope that Kano State would implement strategies to support rural and underprivileged students in accessing affordable, high-quality secondary education.
According to a statement from Balarabe Kiru, the Director of Public Enlightenment at the Kano State Ministry of Education, the commitment to enhancing educational quality was echoed by Dr. Charles E. Udoh, the North West Zonal Director of NECO, who promised top-notch services to support educational improvements in the state.
The state’s dedication to advancing educational policies was reaffirmed by the commissioner, who cited that the government allocates 29.97% of its budget to education, surpassing the United Nations’ education funding benchmark of 25%.
“We now have the chance to revitalize our efforts and ensure our students are prepared for the upcoming National Common Entrance Examination,” stated Doguwa, emphasizing Kano’s need for more educational opportunities given its status as Nigeria’s most populous state and seeking further support and assurance from NECO.
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