Zamfara State is overhauling its education system with major reforms. The moves include introducing 18 vocational and technical subjects in secondary schools.
Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning Abdulmalik Gajam announced the changes at a press conference in Gusau. He said Governor Dauda Lawal's administration is committed to improving educational quality and service delivery statewide.
The state has begun distributing the national curriculum to all junior and senior secondary schools. This ensures teaching standards remain consistent across classrooms, officials say.
Students will now access practical training in mining, electrical installation, computer maintenance and GSM repairs. Gajam explained the new vocational tracks will equip young Nigerians with marketable skills.
"We must prepare our children not only for certificates but also for life," Gajam told reporters. "They should use their skills and knowledge to earn a living and contribute meaningfully to society."
Personnel records have been fully digitalized across the education ministry. The system will track staff deployment, monitor attendance and streamline retirement planning.
Qualified officers are being repositioned based on their expertise and credentials. The state identified 13 PhD holders, 52 master's degree holders, 99 Grade Level 16 officers and 134 Grade Level 15 officers for strategic placement.
Schools and education agencies will now operate under Key Performance Indicators. Gajam said the KPIs strengthen accountability and performance management across institutions.
Government is also reclaiming teachers' quarters illegally occupied by unauthorised persons. Those currently occupying the facilities have 30 days to leave.
Affected schools include Government Secondary School Anka, Government Science Secondary School Bakura and Government Secondary School Birnin Magaji. Officials will enforce the directive strictly.
Gajam dismissed suggestions that recent leadership changes in schools were politically driven. Merit and competence guide all appointments, he insisted.
Leadership rotation strengthens institutions and sparks innovation, according to the commissioner. It's a proven global strategy, he added.
