UNICEF: High Rate of Out of School Children Worrisome

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has expressed worry that despite the importance of education, at least, over 10 million school-aged children in Nigeria were out of school.

It however, reiterated its commitment to engaging traditional/religious stakeholders, School Based Management Committees and youths in Bauchi State to ensure effective awareness and mobilisation of parents, guardians, communities on the importance of enrolling all school-age children in schools.

UNICEF Chief of Field Office Bauchi, Dr Tushar Rane, who was speaking in his welcome remarks at a Media Dialogue on “Out of School Children in Bauchi State”, held at the Chartwell hotel, Misau Local Government Area of Bauchi State, stressed that education played a vital role in the development of any country.

“And quality education, especially at basic level, is integral to socio-economic development; no nation can rise above its educational level,” he said.

Rane emphasised that though education was a fundamental right that empowered children to reach their full potentials, however, lamented that, “It is deeply concerning that, due to varying factors, a significant number of children in Bauchi State are unable to access this fundamental right, robbing them of their dreams and aspirations.

“This is a major challenge to all of us. But at UNICEF, we are committed to improving the lives of children and women in Nigeria, especially in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); and the Education for All (EFA) goals of educating all children at all levels and in all groups.

“We work with the government to enhance planning for improved delivery of education. We also support the government to remove systemic barriers that impede children’s access to quality education.

“Our work with the government is further enhanced through collaboration with traditional leaders, Civil Society Organisations, faith-based organisations, communities, and other development partners to find solutions that will result in getting the out-of-school children back to school,” he said.