Group urges policy action, Partnership to strengthen education sector in Bauchi
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State Chapter of the Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA) has called for accelerated policy implementation, stronger accountability, and enhanced collaboration to improve the quality of education in Bauchi State.
The appeal was made in an advocacy message delivered by the State Coordinator, Mr. Nicholas Afeso, to the Commissioner of Education Ibrahim Abdulkadir on Friday in Bauchi
The coalition congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment, describing it as timely and pivotal to advancing inclusive and equitable education across the state.
CSACEFA commended the Commissioner’s early signing of the Gender in Education Policy, including re-entry guidelines for pregnant and married adolescents, noting that the move demonstrates commitment to tackling systemic barriers.
However, the group stressed the need for sustained efforts to translate policy into measurable outcomes for vulnerable learners.
Afeso explained that CSACEFA, a coalition of over 600 civil society organisations, has continued to support education development through policy engagement, community mobilization, budget tracking, and monitoring of public investments.
He said the coalition’s interventions also focus on teacher capacity development, school governance through School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs), and advocacy for safe and inclusive learning environments.
Presenting its key demands, the coalition urged the Ministry to ensure effective implementation of policies on safe, secure, and violence-free schools.
It also called for improved coordination among education agencies to guarantee transparency in budget performance and decision-making processes.
CSACEFA further sought formal recognition as a strategic partner in policy formulation, programme implementation, and monitoring.
It emphasized that such collaboration would enhance evidence-based planning and strengthen outcomes in the sector.
A major highlight of the advocacy was the call for an Executive Order to protect public education infrastructure.
The coalition noted that despite significant government investments in school construction and rehabilitation, facilities remain vulnerable to vandalism, theft, and misuse.
It proposed community-led monitoring systems and stronger accountability mechanisms to safeguard these assets.
Responding, the Commissioner of Education, Mr. Ibrahim Mohammed, pledged to prioritize the implementation of key education policies and to present the proposal for an Executive Order to the state governor.
Mohammed acknowledged the critical role of civil society as a bridge between government and citizens, stressing that their contributions enhance transparency and accountability.
He warned that neglect of the education sector poses long-term risks, linking current insecurity and social challenges to years of inadequate investment in education.
He underscored the need to focus not only on infrastructure but also on human capacity, particularly the recruitment and motivation of qualified teachers.
According to him, strengthening the education system remains essential to securing sustainable development and national stability.
