FG Urges States to Reopen Schools Shut for Ramadan, Says Education Minister
The Federal Government has called on the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kano states to reconsider their decision to shut down state-owned schools for the Ramadan period. The Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, expressed concern over the potential loss of learning time and emphasized the need to prioritize education, even during the holy month.
Ahmad made the appeal during an appearance on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm show, where she highlighted the Federal Ministry of Education’s efforts to engage with the affected state governments. She acknowledged that while the Federal Government has no direct control over state-owned schools, it is actively working to persuade the states to reopen the institutions to minimize disruptions to academic activities.
“We are engaging the state governments to reconsider their decision to shut schools for Ramadan. Time will be lost if schools remain closed, and we cannot afford to compromise the education of our children,” Ahmad stated.
The decision by the four northern states to close schools during Ramadan has sparked debates about the balance between religious observance and educational priorities. While Ramadan is a significant period for Muslims, the prolonged closure of schools could exacerbate the already existing learning gaps, particularly in regions grappling with low literacy rates and poor educational outcomes.
Ahmad emphasized the importance of finding a middle ground that allows students to observe Ramadan while continuing their education. She suggested that schools could adjust their schedules to accommodate fasting students, such as starting classes earlier or shortening the school day, rather than shutting down entirely.
The Minister’s appeal comes amid growing concerns about the impact of school closures on Nigeria’s education system, which has already faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, insecurity, and other disruptions. Prolonged school closures have been linked to increased dropout rates, child labor, and early marriages, particularly in northern Nigeria.
The Federal Government’s intervention underscores its commitment to addressing the educational needs of Nigerian children and ensuring that no child is left behind. However, the success of these efforts will depend on the willingness of state governments to collaborate and implement measures that balance religious and educational priorities.
Stakeholders in the education sector have also weighed in on the issue, calling for innovative solutions to keep schools open during Ramadan. Some have suggested the introduction of flexible learning models, such as online classes or community-based learning centers, to ensure that students continue to learn while observing the holy month.
As the Federal Government continues its engagement with the affected states, the focus will be on finding sustainable solutions that prioritize both education and religious observance. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for the future of education in northern Nigeria and the country as a whole.
In the meantime, parents, teachers, and students are urged to remain patient and supportive as efforts are made to address the situation. The Federal Government has assured the public that it remains committed to ensuring that every child has access to quality education, regardless of the challenges.
The debate over school closures during Ramadan highlights the need for a holistic approach to education that takes into account the cultural and religious context of different regions. By working together, the Federal and state governments can create an inclusive education system that meets the needs of all Nigerian children.
