Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has appealed to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) for urgent funding in order to restore schools that have been gravely impacted by ongoing conflicts within the state.
Governor Mutfwang made the appeal when he visited the Executive Secretary of the UBEC, Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, in his office in Abuja, following the persistent attacks on innocent communities in the state and the conversion of some schools into shelters for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) for victims of the attacks.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State, Gyang Bere, it was noted that Governor Mutfwang emphasized the dire need for special funds to renovate these educational institutions which said cater for the educational needs of the down trodden in the affected communities.
Governor Mutfwang also took the opportunity to request the establishment of Special Needs Schools in Plateau State, saying this will enhance inclusive education for those with special requirements.
He also called for the inclusion of Plateau State in the UBE intervention programs facilitated by international development partners.
The Governor expressed concern about the current challenges facing the UBE program in Plateau State, such as the inability to access Federal Government UBE matching grants for 2021 and 2023, poor learning outcomes among basic education learners, and the alarming number of out-of-school children, particularly among the Almajiri community.
He highlighted the necessity for improved educational facilities and the detrimental impact of conflict on education within affected communities and local government areas.
While acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Universal Basic Education Commission in Plateau, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to forging a strong partnership with UBEC, aimed at ensuring the effective delivery of quality and functional basic education.
Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, expressed his gratitude for Governor Mutfwang’s visit and applauded the alignment of the Governor’s vision with the Commission’s goals, emphasizing the shared commitment to providing accessible and high-quality education for all Nigerian children.
Dr. Bobboyi pledged unwavering support to Plateau State, acknowledging that Governor Mutfwang’s dedication to prioritizing education has rejuvenated the Commission’s aspirations and promising essential interventions to elevate the educational standards within the state.
Chairman House Committee on Science and Technology and Member representing Jos South/Jos East in the House of Representatives, Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos and Acting Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Sunday Samuel Amuna were among top government officials who accompanied the Governor.
Nigeria Star News 