Governor Babagana Umara Zulum on Friday inaugurated a newly built 48-classroom Integrated High Islamic College in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area, as part of his administration’s commitment to expanding access to quality education for disadvantaged children.
The college is specifically designed to integrate formal education in English and Mathematics with traditional Islamic studies and vocational skills training, offering almajirai and other out-of-school children a second chance at balanced learning.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Governor Zulum described the project as a critical step toward tackling illiteracy and insecurity in the state.
“We will ensure these children receive quality education that qualifies them to sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations, thereby opening the door to tertiary education,” he said.
The governor expressed delight over the strong enrollment turnout in Baga and announced a daily meal programme to support retention of students. “We shall do everything possible to retain them until they complete their studies. Therefore, I want to introduce one meal per day for the students here,” Zulum added.
The Baga college is the latest addition to about 20 similar integrated schools established by the Zulum administration across the state. It underscores the government’s drive to transform the lives of millions of out-of-school children by equipping them with literacy, numeracy, and vocational skills that will enable them to contribute productively to society.
Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, disclosed that students had been provided with free uniforms, books, and learning materials. “About 300 uniforms have been distributed in Baga, but demand is above 500. More uniforms, books, dignity kits, and school bags are being sent. All items are provided free of charge,” he said.
He further explained that 23 teachers recruited from within the Baga community have been deployed to the school, while the principal was promoted from the Local Education Authority.
Governor Zulum was accompanied to the inauguration by federal and state lawmakers, commissioners, and senior government officials, including Engr. Bukar Talba, Hon. Karta Maina Ma’Aji, Prof. Usman Tar, and Engr. Adam Bababe.
