In this piece, JUSTIN TYOPUUSU examines the strides of the Governor Agbu Kefas-led Taraba State Government to tackle out-of-school children menace, make teaching and learning enticing and improve the education sector in the state
For years, the northern region of Nigeria has been plagued by an alarming deficit in education standards, with statistics indicating the region harbours the highest number of out-of-school children. Socio-economic challenges, insecurity, and lack of proper investment in the educational sector have all contributed to the deepening crisis.
Despite these obstacles, a wave of change is sweeping across northern states like Borno, Benue, Kaduna and Taraba who are showing more desire to reverse the trend.
In Taraba State, the free and compulsory education policy introduced by Governor Agbu Kefas is not only changing the narrative but also positioning the state as a model for other northern states.
Pointers to a change in trend are seen in the improved performance of Taraba State students in external examinations like the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO). Observers hold that this development indicates that the free education policy, including payment for WAEC registration for candidates in Taraba public schools, by the Kefas administration, is yielding positive results.
Analysts describe Governor Kefas’ strides, and initiatives in the education sector as transformative in the history of the state.
One of the first moves of Governor Kefas, upon assumption of office, was a declaration of free education from primary to secondary school levels and a reduction by half of the tuition fees of tertiary institutions in the state.
Observers believe that Governor Agbu Kefas’ singular declaration of free education from primary to secondary school levels has dramatically reshaped the education landscape in Taraba State.
Since the policy’s implementation, school enrollment has surged as thousands of previously out-of-school children now have access to quality education without the financial burden, that is, payment of school fees, that was once held on to as an excuse. Parents who had struggled to afford basic schooling for their children are now sending them to school in droves, confident that the government’s support will cover uniforms, learning materials, and even transportation in some cases.
This bold initiative has positioned Taraba as a state committed to reversing the trend of educational neglect, low literacy and poor school attendance. The ripple effects of this policy are already evident as the state moves toward a brighter future where education is no longer a privilege for a few but a right for all.
Beyond increased enrollment, Governor Kefas’ reforms are transforming the state’s education sector in more ways than one. By cutting tuition fees at tertiary institutions in half, the Governor has extended the benefits of free education to higher levels, enabling more students to pursue advanced studies. This move has made tertiary education accessible to a broader demography of the state’s population, especially those from lower-income backgrounds who previously could not afford it.
Moreover, with a renewed focus on teacher welfare, infrastructural improvements, and enhanced security in schools, the quality of education in Taraba is steadily improving. Teachers are more motivated, students are better equipped, and learning environments are safer and more conducive. These developments signal a significant shift in Taraba’s educational trajectory, promising long-term socio-economic growth fueled by an empowered and educated populace.
At a recent meeting with public school principals and head teachers held at the Jolly Nyame Stadium Gym Hall in Jalingo, Governor Kefas reiterated his administration’s strong stance on the free education policy.
The Governor declared that “There is no going back on free and compulsory education.” This declaration underscored the Governor’s commitment to the education sector in the state.
Governor Kefas’ vision goes beyond merely boosting enrollment numbers. The free education being provided to children is fostering a culture of learning that could transform not only Taraba’s future but also set a precedent for the entire northern region.
Already over 100,000 school uniforms, bags, sandals, and other learning materials are set to be distributed to students in the coming weeks, a clear signal of the administration’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to education for all.
“This is an opportunity to bridge the educational gap in Taraba and prepare the next generation for a better future,” the state’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin. “We have seen a sharp increase in school enrollment and the results are evident in the improved performance in national exams. Governor Kefas’ free education policy is undoubtedly one of the most impactful policies in recent times,” she added.
The administration’s focus on the welfare of teachers is another key factor in the policy’s success. During the meeting, Governor Kefas announced plans to promote deserving teachers and assured that all salary arrears would be cleared before the year’s end.
“Our teachers are the backbone of this transformation. We will continue to support them and ensure that they receive what is due to them,” the Governor said.
For many in Taraba, Governor Kefas is a beacon of hope, bringing long-needed reforms to the state’s education system. They acknowledge that the state is witnessing a revolution in the education sector, which they said has not only led to a reduction in the number of out-of-school children but also encouraged parents to prioritize the education of their children.
Analysts in Taraba State have commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his free education policy, describing it as a bold step toward reducing illiteracy and improving access to education across the state. One of them, Mr. Isaac Atamawe Dennis lauded the initiative, emphasizing its potential to uplift marginalized communities.
“Governor Kefas’ decision to make education free in Taraba is a significant milestone. It shows his commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind, especially at a time when economic hardships have made schooling unaffordable for many families,” he said.
He stressed that the Governor’s commitment to improving school infrastructure and teachers’ welfare has reenergized the entire sector. This, he said is coupled with safer schools and motivated teachers leading to excelling students. Similarly, Dr Helen Yakubu, a public affairs commentator, urged the state government to prioritize extending the benefits of the policy to remote areas. “While the free education policy is commendable, it is crucial that communities in hard-to-reach areas also experience improved school infrastructure and access to quality education. The government should focus on providing modern facilities and qualified teachers in these communities to ensure a balanced development,” Yakubu noted.
Other analysts called on the state government to enhance the quality of education by investing in teacher training programmes and providing adequate learning materials. They noted that a sustained focus on infrastructure development, especially in rural areas, would ensure the policy’s long-term success and transform the state’s educational sector. They further noted that the policies will have long-term positive effects on the development of the state.
According to an education expert, Dr. Musa Mohammed, the policies of the Kefas administration will shape the future leaders of Taraba. He noted that the ripple effects of the education policies of the present government will have ripple effects. With improved literacy rates, he noted that Taraba is also poised to make significant strides in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and technology.
“An educated population is more likely to make informed decisions, participate in governance, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy. Governor Kefas is investing not only in schools but in the very fabric of Taraba’s future.
“Moreover, the Governor’s emphasis on securing schools through collaboration with the Civil Defence Service has further strengthened the resolve to make schools safe and accessible for all. His administration is working tirelessly to create a conducive environment for learning, free from the threat of insecurity that plagues many other northern states.
“The free education policy has also ushered in a cultural shift. Taraba, traditionally seen as one of the educationally disadvantaged states, is now becoming competitive on the national stage,” Mohammed said.
Meanwhile, the performances by the Taraba State Art Council and local musicians during the recent event celebrating the state’s educational achievements symbolized not just the progress in education, but the hope and pride the policy has instilled in the people.
Governor Agbu Kefas’ commitment to free and compulsory education is seen as a bold step toward a brighter future for Taraba State. With improved academic performance, better-equipped schools, and a motivated teaching workforce, the state is set to overcome its past challenges and emerge as a beacon of educational progress in the north. As the rest of the country watches, Taraba is proving that with the right leadership and policies, the future can indeed be better for citizens.