…inaugurates quality education, girl-child initiatives

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The federal government, yesterday, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to quality, inclusive and equitable education to all Nigerians.

Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, reaffirmed government’s commitment at the inauguration of quality education and girl-child initiatives, in Abuja.

Ahmad declared that the initiatives will redefine the future of education in the country, with a special emphasis on empowering the girl-child and enhancing learning outcomes for every student.

She said,”Education remains the bedrock of national progress and sustainable development, and through the Luminah Girl-Child Initiative and our broader Quality Education and Learning Outcomes initiatives, we are taking decisive steps to bridge educational gaps, foster innovation, and equip our young people with the skills competences and knowledge needed to thrive in a dynamic world.

“A fundamental pillar of this mission is empowering our educators-ensuring they have the necessary training, resources, and support to deliver high-quality, future-focused instruction that meet the diverse and changing needs of learners.

“Equally vital is our commitment to illuminating pathways for the girl-child and women, ensuring that education becomes a powerful tool for breaking barriers, driving economic empowerment, and fostering gender equity. By investing in inclusive learning opportunities, we are not just educating individuals we are building stronger families, resilient communities, and a more prosperous nation.”

While appreciating the Minister of Education, the Ministers of Women Affairs, Trade and Investment and the Director-General of NITDA, respectively, she said their persistent support and collaboration were instrumental in driving the initiatives forward.

She also appreciated the commitment of all the members of the various committees in the initiative and implored them to work together for positive impact and outcomes.

“As we launch these transformative programs, let us renew our shared commitment to building an inclusive, resilient, and future-ready education system. Together, we can inspire change, unlock opportunities, and empower future generations, ” she added.

Meanwhile, the government has unveiled activities lined up for the 2025 observance of the Commonwealth of Nations on the theme:“Together We Thrive” which highlights the perseverance and resilience of the association of 56 Commonwealth nations in upholding the commitment to promote peace, and prosperity within member states.

Addressing the media in Abuja, Minister of Education,Tunji Alausa, said,”Accordingly, the Ministry communicated to the states ministries of education and Universal Basic Education Boards to direct all basic and secondary educational institutions therein to observe the day.

” However, some activities are scheduled to create awareness, promote critical thinking and fun way learning for students within the Federal Capital Territory.

“To this end, as this Media briefing is ongoing, Students from selected schools within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are participating in the Dress rehearsal for the parade of Commonwealth Nations flags, which involves a ceremonial procession with respective National Flags and cultural attire to highlight unity, diversity and cooperation among the 56 member countries of the Commonwealth of nations.

“The schools were also tasked to supervise students to create poems, drama, and dance on the theme, “Together We Thrive” and the best three (3) from each genre will be presented on the D–day while the star winners will be handsomely rewarded for their ingenuity.

“A Youth lecture on the 2025 Commonwealth of Nations commemoration theme is also scheduled to create awareness for the Youth to know their role in shaping a brighter future by upholding unity, peace, and collaboration across cultures, backgrounds, and disciplines, “he said.

Noting that ” the D-day will be on Monday, 10th March, 2025″, the minister said Invitations were forwarded to diplomats of Commonwealth member states within Abuja through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to witness the creative presentations on the 2025 Commonwealth theme by adolescents and young people from selected schools within the FCT.

“It is also worthy to note that the Ministry drives this commemoration annually to amplify voices for collaborative learning which leads to knowledge, innovation, and sustainable development, ” he explained.