The Katsina State Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, Zainab Musa Musawa, has announced new operational guidelines for private and community schools, as part of the State’s educational reforms.
Speaking at a one-day town hall meeting with Community and private Schools stakeholders held in Katsina, the Commissioner emphasised that the guidelines are aimed at creating a transparent, efficient, and inclusive framework for school operations across the state.
The meeting was attended by critical education stakeholders, including the State Chairman of the Parents Teachers Association, Executive Secretary of the Science and Technical Education Board, and Representatives of proprietors of private and community schools, among other education stakeholders in the state.
“Education is the cornerstone of progress, and private and community schools play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our children,” the Commissioner declared during the town meeting.
She also explained that the new guidelines are meant to address critical areas including infrastructure, curriculum delivery, teacher qualifications, student welfare, and compliance with national and state education policies.
“The new operational guidelines we are discussing today have been carefully crafted to strengthen the operations of private and community schools while fostering collaboration with the State Government to meet the educational needs of every child in Katsina State,” she stated.
Musawa added that “The Ministry has revised compliance and approval processes to ensure only institutions meeting the standards will continue operating to protect students and parents from substandard education”.
She assured the stakeholders that the approval process remains transparent and free from undue influence.
“For community schools specifically, the guidelines require demonstration of long-term development plans involving local stakeholders, ensuring schools serve as hubs for community welfare,” she maintained.
The Commissioner stressed that the guidelines represent a draft document open to stakeholder feedback and collaboration.
“These guidelines are not static. We are committed to transparency and stakeholder engagement. Your feedback is vital to refining these policies,” she noted.
Musawa further urged all private and community schools to fully embrace the guidelines by registering for approval processes, investing in teacher training, and prioritizing student welfare.
The Ministry pledged support through resources, training, and partnerships, including exploration of AI-driven platforms and community literacy programs to enhance learning outcomes.
“As we move forward, let us remember that education is a shared responsibility. These guidelines are a roadmap to excellence, not a barrier,” she concluded.