The Zamfara state government says it will not shut schools even though insecurity and kidnapping cases are increasing in many parts of the country.
Instead, the government said it has introduced new security measures to protect pupils and make sure they continue learning without fear.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Wadatau Madawaki, told journalists this during an event organised by the Federated Association of Zamfara State Students in Gusau.
His comments came after the kidnapping of 25 students from Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, and the abduction of about 315 students and staff from Saint Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State.
While some northern states have closed schools because of these attacks, Zamfara says it will not take that path.
The government is instead working to strengthen security in and around learning centres.
“We have already done what we are supposed to do, and when you talk about security, you do not disclose your actions to the media. But we have taken steps to safeguard the interests of our students. The security of the schools and children is well taken care of.
“We are in contact with all the security agencies, and they are giving us the necessary support to ensure our schools operate without hindrance. We believe nothing will happen, and our education will continue to flourish until the end of the academic term,” Madawaki said.
He explained that many states closing their schools operate boarding systems, which are more vulnerable because students sleep in hostels, often attacked at night.
Zamfara, he noted, currently runs mostly day schools because of the insecurity situation.
“As of now, most of the states that have closed their schools operate boarding systems where students stay in hostels. Bandits often strike at night when people are asleep. Here, we are yet to resume our boarding system. Our schools run during the day,” he said.
He added that schools in areas facing serious insecurity remain closed until the situation improves.
“Where we feel there is insecurity, the schools have already been closed. Where there is relative peace, we have allowed students to continue since the term is almost ending. If there is a need to extend holidays, we shall do so,” he said.
Madawaki also said that some higher institutions, like the state university, polytechnic and college of education, are already on holiday.
“They are due to resume in December, but because they keep boarding students, we will extend their holidays until January to assess the situation before they return.”