The Katsina State Government has defended its decision to close schools during the holy month of Ramadan, saying it has put measures in place to ensure minimal academic disruption.
The state Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Sani Danjuma, on Tuesday, said the move was aimed at balancing religious observance with academic continuity.
“In response to ongoing discussions about school operations, the ministry has developed a strategy to minimise academic disruption while recognising the challenges posed by Ramadan,” the statement read.
Danjuma explained that the government took into consideration the extreme weather conditions in northern Nigeria, as well as the unique difficulties faced by students and teachers during the fasting period.
“Our directive ensures that students, particularly those preparing for critical examinations, continue their academic preparations,” he said.
He added that the government had designed special extra lessons for Senior Secondary Certificate Examination candidates in public, private, and community schools to help them catch up on missed academic activities.
The ministry also reminded the public of an existing state law mandating the closure of schools during Ramadan.
“In recognition of concerns raised by stakeholders, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the ministry assures the public that extra lessons, beginning on March 3, 2025, will be structured to accommodate students and teachers observing Ramadan, as well as the prevailing environmental conditions,” the statement read.
