Gombe, UNICEF renew partnership to cut out-of-school children
The Gombe State Government has renewed its partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to tackle the rising number of out-of-school children in the state. Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya signed a comprehensive Framework of Action during a strategic engagement with the UNICEF Chief of Bauchi Field Office, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, at the Government House […]
The Gombe State Government has renewed its partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to tackle the rising number of out-of-school children in the state.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya signed a comprehensive Framework of Action during a strategic engagement with the UNICEF Chief of Bauchi Field Office, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, at the Government House Gombe.
The jointly developed framework focuses on four key areas: strategic engagement with political actors; strengthening best practices and alternative solutions; boosting community accountability and mobilisation; and leveraging technology and innovation to expand access to quality education.
Governor Yahaya described the situation as a “national emergency,” especially in the North-East, where insecurity and displacement have disrupted schooling.
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“Gombe State has become home to thousands of IDPs from neighbouring states. While we integrate them, this has further strained our educational resources,” he said, adding that the goal is to cut the state’s out-of-school population by half before 2030.
He reaffirmed commitment to meeting counterpart funding obligations and highlighted local initiatives such as “Garin Inuwa,” a homegrown food supplement used to fight child malnutrition.
Dr Rafique commended the state’s political will and progress in education, health, nutrition, and child protection, pledging UNICEF’s continued support, including psychosocial services and expanded access to basic amenities.