Headlines
Kano disseminates 2024/2025 schools census report, records progress in girls’ enrolment
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Ministry of Education has disseminated the 2024/2025 Annual Schools Census (ASC) Report, revealing notable progress in gender participation with girls accounting for a significant share of enrolment across different levels of education.
Speaking at the dissemination meeting held at the COVID-19 Hall of the Ministry of Education, the Commissioner for Education, Ali Haruna Abubakar Makoda, said the Annual Schools Census remains a critical tool for strengthening data-driven policy making in the education sector.
Makoda explained that the 2024/2025 census achieved near-universal coverage across public education sub-sectors, including pre-primary, primary, junior secondary, senior secondary, as well as science and technical schools.
He added that non-formal learning centres were also comprehensively captured for the first time, describing the development as a major improvement in the state’s Education Management Information System (EMIS).
The commissioner also highlighted a key innovation introduced during the census cycle, the adoption of the DHIS2 digital platform, which he said enhances real-time data entry, improves validation processes, reduces inconsistencies and allows faster reporting for better monitoring of education sector performance.
According to the report, the census recorded encouraging progress in girls’ participation in education, a development the commissioner attributed to the impact of government policies aimed at promoting girls’ education and ensuring equitable access to learning opportunities.
Despite the progress recorded, Makoda noted that the findings also revealed challenges, particularly in teacher availability and infrastructure at the basic education level.
He said high pupil–teacher and pupil–classroom ratios in some schools indicate the need for sustained investment in classroom expansion, recruitment and training of teachers, and improvement of the overall learning environment.
The commissioner emphasised that the Annual Schools Census goes beyond statistics, noting that the data generated provides a critical foundation for education sector planning, budgeting, teacher deployment, infrastructure development and monitoring progress toward global education targets such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education.
Makoda therefore urged stakeholders to carefully review the findings and provide constructive recommendations that would guide the next phase of education reforms in the state.
He also commended UNICEF for supporting the 2024/2025 Annual Schools Census and appreciated the efforts of the ministry’s Planning, Research and Statistics Department, the EMIS team, education agencies and field officers whose dedication ensured the successful completion of the exercise.
The commissioner further acknowledged the presence of representatives of government agencies, development partners, civil society organisations, education stakeholders, school administrators and members of the media at the event, describing their participation as vital to advancing education reforms in the state.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening the education system through data-driven decision making, improved infrastructure and policies that promote inclusive and quality education for all.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has commenced a preliminary investigation into allegations linking a person reportedly identified as one of its students to acts of online impersonation and financial misconduct circulating on social media.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, on behalf of the Registrar, the university said it had taken note of the claims being discussed in public commentary and across various online platforms.
The statement noted that BUK maintains strict standards of conduct, discipline, and character for all students throughout the duration of their studies, adding that any behaviour capable of bringing the name and reputation of the institution into disrepute is treated with the utmost seriousness.
According to the university, the alleged actions of an individual student should not be seen as a reflection of the values or character of Bayero University Kano as an institution.
“In view of the allegations, the University has commenced a preliminary inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the matter. The appropriate University authorities are reviewing the issue in line with the institution’s established rules and disciplinary procedures governing students’ conduct,” the statement said.
The management also commended the public-spirited efforts of Professor Farooq Kperogi and other individuals who provide financial assistance to students in need, particularly by supporting registration fees and other educational expenses.
The university noted that such acts of generosity continue to play an important role in expanding access to education and supporting deserving students.
BUK assured members of the public that if the allegations are substantiated, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken in accordance with the university’s regulations and relevant laws.
The institution also urged the public to allow the investigative process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or the spread of unverified information.
Ibrahim Khalil
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has relieved the State Head of Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, of his appointment with immediate effect.
KANO FOCUS reports that the development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the decision forms part of the ongoing efforts of the current administration to reposition the state civil service for greater efficiency, discipline, and improved service delivery across government institutions.
Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the outgoing Head of Service for his contributions and dedication to the service of Kano State during his tenure.
“We wish him the best in his future endeavours and pray for his continued success in all aspects of life,” the governor said.
The governor also directed that Hajiya Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, Permanent Secretary, Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, should serve as Acting Head of Service pending the appointment of a substantive replacement.
The statement further directed the outgoing Head of Service to hand over the affairs of the office to the acting Head of Service no later than Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Board Chairman of Belraados Limited and Kano State Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Dr. Goni Faruk Umar, on Saturday met with the former President of Brazil, Mr. Michel Temer, during the opening dinner of the 26th Expodireto Cotrijal in Brazil.
KANO FOCUS reports that Dr. Umar was seen exchanging a handshake with the former Brazilian leader at the event held in Não-Me-Toque, a city in the southern part of Brazil hosting the annual international agribusiness exhibition.
The Expodireto Cotrijal is one of the largest agricultural trade fairs in Latin America, attracting policymakers, agribusiness investors, researchers and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss innovations and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Participants at the event are expected to explore partnerships and share ideas aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening international cooperation in agribusiness.
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