The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended Gombe State for its strategic efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children, describing the state as a leading example in Nigeria’s education sector.
The endorsement came during a high-level meeting between Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, where the state government formally adopted the National Framework on Out-of-School Children.
In a statement posted on its verified Facebook page, UNICEF praised the move: “Kudos to Gombe State! The government has adopted the National Framework on Out of School Children. This will reduce the number of out-of-school children in Gombe and ensure every child gets access to quality education.”
The framework, developed in collaboration with UNICEF, provides a comprehensive approach to tackling educational exclusion through political engagement, best practices, community accountability, and technology-driven solutions.
Governor Yahaya emphasised the state’s commitment during the signing ceremony, stating: “This action is part of Gombe State’s commitment to educational reform and inclusive learning for all children, regardless of background or circumstance.” He reiterated his administration’s determination to ensure no child is left behind in accessing basic education.
Dr. Rafique hailed the development as transformative, noting: “This landmark development has positioned Gombe as a leading example among Nigerian states in the fight against educational exclusion, and has further strengthened the state’s collaboration in driving impactful social change.”
The framework’s implementation will focus on identifying vulnerable children, improving school infrastructure, and leveraging technology to expand learning opportunities across the state.
With Nigeria accounting for about 20% of the world’s out-of-school children, Gombe’s model offers potential lessons for other states grappling with similar challenges.
The UNICEF recognition comes as Gombe intensifies efforts to improve its education indicators, including recent investments in teacher training and classroom construction.
State officials confirm the framework will be backed by targeted funding and monitoring mechanisms to ensure measurable progress in school enrollment and retention rates across all local government areas.
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