Governor Dauda Lawal has inaugurated new governing councils and boards for the six state-owned tertiary institutions in Zamfara, describing the move as a significant step towards revitalising the education sector.
The institutions affected include Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara; Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara; College of Education, Maru; College of Nursing and Midwifery, Gusau; College of Health Sciences and Technology, Tsafe; and College of Agriculture and Animal Science, Bakura.
A statement from the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, explained that the constitution of the new councils followed the adoption of a government White Paper based on reports from visitation panels that assessed the institutions.
In his remarks at the inauguration, Governor Lawal underscored his administration’s commitment to reversing the decline in the state’s education system. “The councils and boards inaugurated today are expected to significantly improve the management and administration of our tertiary institutions,” he said.
“By leveraging the expertise and dedication of these distinguished individuals, we anticipate a new era of academic excellence in our institutions of higher learning.”
The Governor highlighted the steps taken over the past 20 months to address deep-rooted challenges in the sector. These include the reconstruction, rehabilitation, and furnishing of schools at all levels, as well as the settlement of outstanding examination fees for WAEC and NECO candidates.
He further noted that his government had facilitated access to development partner funding by clearing counterpart obligations, while also addressing salary, pension, and gratuity arrears for civil servants, including teachers.
READ MORE: Adetola Nola’s A.R.N. Foods expands with new rice mill in Lagos
“To build on these successes, we have meticulously appointed individuals with vast knowledge and experience in the education sector and a proven track record of integrity to serve as chairmen and members of the governing councils,” he said.
Governor Lawal urged the newly appointed officials to collaborate with development partners to tackle funding challenges and improve the quality of education in Zamfara.
“The government and the good people of Zamfara State place high expectations on you, and there is no doubt that you are well-suited for this crucial assignment,” he said.
The inauguration marks another milestone in the administration’s broader efforts to restore the state’s education system, which has struggled with infrastructural decay and financial constraints in recent years.
