The National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-school Education (NCAOOSE) has engaged other education agencies in streamlining overlapping roles towards addressing out-of-school children in the country.
The Executive Secretary of the commission, Dr Sha’aban Sharada was speaking when a delegation from UNICEF paid a visit to the commission in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to Sharada, the Minister of Education has called on us on the need for coordination and collaborative action to address critical issues of out-of-school children.
“The directive underscores our commitment to avoid duplication of efforts and ensuring synergy among agencies involved in tackling the out-of-school issues.
“For too long, the lack of reliable data and potential overlap in mandates among various agencies within the ministry have hindered our collective efforts.
“This meeting marks a significant step towards addressing this challenges and fostering synergy amongst us.
“Moreover, where there is overlap in our collective responsibilities, it is imperative that we come to a common understanding on who should handle what.
“This will not only streamline our operation but also provide clarity to the ministry regarding specific commitments and responsibilities of each agency in achieving the ministerial deliverables and education for renewed hope roadmap of the Ministry of Education,” he said.
Sharada added that the significant increase in budgetary allocation for education underscored the government’s dedication to improving the education sector.
According to him, this is the commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 of the 2030 agenda.
“It is incumbent upon us to use these resources effectively and efficiently to achieve our shared objectives,” Sharada said.
Also, the UNICEF Head of Education, Saadhna Panday said that Nigeria has home grown solution to eliminate out-of-school problems, keep the children in school and ensure they learn.
Panday pledged to bring UNICEF technical expertise and know-how to support the mandates of the agency in eliminating the menace of out-of-school in the country.
“We need to give quality education to the children. We must spend money in education and if we don’t spend more efficiently, it will compromise children to come to school.
“We want you to see us as your ally, we want to see that no child is left behind and we will be here supporting you,” she said.
The event has the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Nomadic Education, Prof. Bashir Usman and the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, Prof. Simon Akpama in attendance. (NAN)