The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, on Friday, officially launched the foundation-laying ceremony for 13 key infrastructure projects at the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Nonformal Education (NMEC) Kano Center. This initiative is part of a public-private partnership aimed at enhancing the country’s literacy, adult education, and vocational training capabilities.
Dr. Suwaiba highlighted the importance of the project in creating an environment where literacy programs and skill acquisition can thrive. She emphasized that the collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Education and Maslaha Homes Limited, through a land swap arrangement, marks a significant step in transforming education and promoting lifelong learning across Nigeria.
“These 13 infrastructure projects—ranging from hostels, classrooms, lecture theatres, and libraries to skill acquisition centers—are crucial for expanding the reach and impact of the NMEC’s initiatives,” Dr. Suwaiba said. “This center will play a key role in advancing literacy and educational programs, particularly for adult learners and underserved communities.”
The Minister also noted that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on providing equitable education, developing skills, and empowering citizens to be productive. She emphasized the socio-economic benefits of education, including poverty reduction, better health outcomes, and inclusive economic growth.
Representing the Kano State government, Commissioner for Education Alhaji Umar Haruna Doguwa acknowledged the historical significance of the Kano Center in advancing mass literacy and adult education. He pointed out that, despite the center’s potential, challenges such as resource constraints had hindered its progress. However, with the new infrastructure, the center is poised to become a modern hub for education and skill development.
“Kano State has always prioritized education, recognizing it as the foundation of development,” said Doguwa. “Last year, we allocated 29.91% of our annual budget to the education sector, a first in the state’s history.”
Prof. Akapan Simon, Executive Secretary of NMEC, also spoke at the ceremony, noting the vision behind the Kano Center as a regional hub for adult education in Africa. He acknowledged the challenges faced in the center’s development but expressed optimism that the new infrastructure would enable the center to fulfill its mission of empowering individuals with the skills needed to improve their lives and contribute to national development.
The 13 infrastructure projects, which are a significant part of the Kano Center’s master plan, are expected to transform the facility into a fully equipped institution capable of fulfilling its mandate and making a lasting impact on literacy and employment in the region.
