It is the government’s responsibility to provide and oversee excellent, accessible education to all for national growth. However, in today’s Nigeria, the government at all levels cannot offer such services without public-private partnerships.
Private schools aid the government by filling gaps that public schools alone cannot address. Aside from educating the next generation, private schools also provide an outlet for job creation. However, the Commissioner of Education does not appear to appreciate the critical functions that private schools play in the advancement of the state.
Katsina State intends to seem concerned about the state’s education situation by cancelling the licenses of all existing private and community schools. It is perilous to begin considering the education sector as a source of money production for the state.
“You cannot put a crown on a clown and expect a king,” said Prof. Zunnurain. So you cannot select an accountant to manage a key industry like education and expect to see great results. The new policy is nothing more than an attempt to smear the current government of Dr. Radda.
The Katsina State Government should view private and community schools as partners in growth rather than opponents of the state. The proprietors, administrators, and teachers of private schools in Katsina State are law-abiding citizens, not criminals or bandits.
Finally, Governor Dr. Radda should consider appointing persons with direct knowledge to run the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. The accountant should be situated where she can create revenue for the state.
Murtala Nuhu
31/08/2025