Concern rises as northern states’ enrollment plummets in federal unity schools

The Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has raised alarm over the significant decline in student enrollment from northern states in Federal Unity Colleges.

During a recent visit to the Kano State Ministry of Education for an Advocacy and Sensitisation Visit, Mamman emphasized the imperative to address this shortfall and fully utilize the region’s educational quotas in 2024.

The minister, represented by Edith Osanyinpejun, Deputy Director and Head of Junior Secondary Education, revealed disheartening statistics provided by the National Examination Council (NECO), indicating alarmingly low enrollment rates in the National Common Entrance Examination and Gifted Examination from most northern states.

For instance, Kano, which once boasted 5000 enrolled candidates following intensified sensitization campaigns, witnessed a drastic drop to a mere 574 enrollments in Federal Unity Colleges in 2023.

Mamman underscored the importance of collective efforts to raise awareness among stakeholders, parents, and guardians regarding the significance of quality education, especially with the upcoming Entrance Examinations in April and May for the National Common Entrance and Gifted Examination, respectively.

The minister urged states to implement necessary measures to support rural and underprivileged students in accessing affordable yet high-quality secondary education.

Charles E. Udoh, the North West Zonal Director of NECO, present at the meeting, pledged to provide enhanced services to bolster educational standards in Kano State.

The commissioner reiterated the government’s steadfast commitment to educational advancement, noting that despite the United Nations’ benchmark of 25% allocation for education, the current administration allocates an impressive 29.97% of its budget to education.

In response, Representative Doguwa emphasized the urgent need for collective action, particularly in ensuring increased participation in the upcoming National Common Entrance Examination. With Kano’s significant population, there’s a pressing demand for expanded educational opportunities, necessitating cooperation and support from NECO and other stakeholders.

The collaborative efforts between the Federal Ministry of Education, state governments, and educational bodies like NECO are crucial in reversing the declining trend in enrollment and ensuring equitable access to quality education across the nation.