The Katsina State Government has revoked the licences of all private and community schools across the state as part of sweeping reforms aimed at standardising and improving education quality.
The decision, announced in a circular signed by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Zainab Musa Musawa, directs all affected schools to cease operating under old licences effective August 13, 2025, and comply with a new licensing regime.
According to the ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Malam Sani Danjuma, the revised policy covers application, registration, annual renewal, and school upgrade fees. Schools are required to submit proof of payment to the ministry by September 30, 2025, with all transactions to be made through the state’s single treasury account.
Commissioner Musa Musawa explained that while schools may resume operations during the licence renewal process, fee adjustments should not translate into higher school charges for students without explicit government approval. She stressed that affordability and access to education remain key priorities.
“These reforms are designed to raise standards, ensure accountability, and protect the future of Katsina’s children. You cannot start a school in a two-bedroom apartment with colourful paint and call it standard,” she said.
The reforms include:
Mandatory Licence Renewal: All schools must reapply under the new guidelines.
Student Tracking System: A new mechanism will monitor student transfers and prevent unregulated movements.
Technology Integration: Plans to expand the use of e-learning and artificial intelligence, particularly in rural areas.
Stakeholders at a recent high-level meeting raised concerns over high registration fees, disparities between urban and rural schools, overcrowding in public schools, and teacher absenteeism. In response, the Commissioner disclosed that the state is collaborating with the World Bank, UNICEF, and UNESCO to address infrastructure gaps and workforce challenges.
She assured stakeholders that flexible aspects of the new policy could be reviewed but noted that adherence to national standards was non-negotiable.
Professor Kabir Matazu, a participant at the meeting, commended the reforms, calling for stronger collaboration between government and school owners.
A high-powered committee chaired by the Secretary to the State Government and comprising past and present education leaders has been set up to finalise the framework. School owners have also been encouraged to submit input through associations such as the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS).
“This meeting is a testament to our collective commitment to sustaining quality education in Katsina State,” the Commissioner concluded.
Once implemented, the reforms are expected to redefine the regulation of non-governmental schools in Katsina, ensuring that all children, regardless of background, access quality and standardised education.
