Jigawa Marks International Day of Education 2026, Highlights Youth Power in Co-Creating Education

From Dauda Muhammad Hadejia

The Jigawa State Ministry of Basic Education, in collaboration with the Jigawa Education Accountability Forum (JEAF) and supported by FCDO-PLANE Jigawa, has commemorated the 2026 International Day of Education with a strong call for youth inclusion in shaping the future of learning.

The event, held at Dr. Nuhu Sunusi Primary School in Dutse, Jigawa State, was themed “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education.” It brought together key stakeholders in the education sector, including government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, media practitioners, youth groups, and representatives of people with disabilities.

Delivering his welcome address, the Secretary of JEAF, Abdulkadir Kaila, described the forum as a non-governmental coalition of civil society organizations and media practitioners working in the education sector.

He explained that JEAF is committed to strengthening education accountability mechanisms and advocating for improved enrollment, retention, and completion rates across the state.

Kaila noted that this year’s theme emphasizes youth empowerment as a critical driver of innovation and transformation in the education system. According to him, involving young people in co-creating education will introduce fresh ideas and innovative approaches that can foster productivity and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the State Team Leader of PLANE Jigawa, Mustapha Ahmed Kurawa, and represented by Jummai Joseph, PLANE reaffirmed its commitment to supporting education improvement and system strengthening for better learning outcomes in Jigawa State.

She disclosed that the organization has conducted teacher training in literacy and numeracy and supplied teaching and learning materials across seven PLANE intervention Local Government Areas in the state. Jummai urged youths to remain dedicated to acquiring knowledge and skills that would positively impact national development.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Jigawa State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Professor Haruna Musa, commended teachers for their dedication and commitment to nurturing students into responsible ambassadors of the state.

He particularly praised the impressive debate presentation by pupils of Dr. Nuhu Sunusi Primary School, describing it as a reflection of the progress being made in the education sector.

Professor Musa noted that significant improvements have been achieved in recent years, attributing the progress to the strong passion and commitment of the state Governor toward educational development. He highlighted that the education sector receives the largest share of the state budget, underscoring the government’s determination to ensure that basic education stands independently and thrives. He added that current strategies are focused on creating a conducive learning environment that enables learners to reach their full potential.

The SUBEB Chairman called on all stakeholders across Jigawa State to support the Governor’s educational reforms and embrace the system in good faith to achieve sustainable progress.

The International Day of Education 2026 celebration was attended by members of people with disabilities, youth groups, the Association of Private Schools, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) members, media representatives, civil society organizations, development partners, and officials from relevant education sectors.
The event underscored the collective commitment of stakeholders in Jigawa State to harness the power of youth in co-creating a more inclusive, innovative, and accountable education system.