The Kano State Government has launched a statewide career guidance programme to strengthen students’ preparation for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and help them make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures.
The initiative is designed to strengthen career counselling in secondary schools, improve students’ readiness for university admission and vocational training, and support informed decisions about future employment opportunities.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, said at the launch that quality education must extend beyond the provision of classrooms, teachers, and instructional materials to include effective career counselling.
He explained that proper guidance would help students identify their strengths, make realistic academic choices and pursue careers that align with their talents and the changing demands of the labour market.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving educational standards through investments in school infrastructure, teacher recruitment, scholarships, learning materials, and other interventions.
He urged school counsellors and career masters to demonstrate professionalism, patience and dedication, noting that their advice could significantly influence students’ academic performance and long-term career success.
Governor Yusuf also called on parents and guardians to allow their children to explore their interests and abilities when making career decisions, rather than imposing personal preferences on them.
On youth development, he stressed the need for stronger cooperation among teachers, parents, community leaders and religious institutions to promote moral values and tackle social challenges, particularly drug abuse and other negative behaviours among young people.
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The governor further highlighted the growing impact of technology, especially artificial intelligence, on employment and professional opportunities worldwide.
He urged education stakeholders to prepare students for emerging careers and evolving workplace requirements by equipping them with relevant knowledge, skills and competencies.
Yusuf advised students to remain committed to their studies, seek professional guidance and avoid peer pressure when choosing academic programmes and career paths.
