By Mubarak Ibrahim
As part of ongoing concerns over the state of basic education in rural communities, dilapidated classrooms at Yar Kanya Primary School in Gabasawa Local Government Area of Kano State continue to hinder learning activities and threaten pupils’ safety.
The school, which serves children from at least four neighbouring villages, is in dire condition several classroom blocks have no roofs, some lack doors, and others are near collapse.
“Our children’s lives are in difficulty, especially during the rainy season. The classroom buildings are in bad condition. There are not even security guards; community members are the ones taking care of the school. It is unfortunate because Yar Kanya School is a central school where many villages send their children,” lamented Mustapha, a member of the school committee.
He further explained that while the school currently runs junior primary classes, the shortage of classrooms and furniture remains a major challenge.
“There are no desks. We are even lucky that the school building itself is still standing and relatively strong. From a distance, the classrooms may look fine, but once you go inside, you will realize there is a serious problem,” he said.
Similarly, Aminu Audu, a resident living close to the school, appealed to the authorities for urgent intervention.
“This school has truly been in this condition for a long time. From our side, we have tried to inform the authorities, from the Local Government to other politicians in this area, but our efforts have not been successful,” he recounted.
He added, “Our hope is that your visit will become the reason for the renovation of this school, because education is the foundation of life, and there must be a proper and conducive environment for teaching and learning.”
Responding to the development, the Kano State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Goni Ali Haruna Makoda, expressed shock over the condition of the school when contacted by this Reporter.
“We do not have any report regarding the condition of this school. We are calling on the community to submit a written report, along with pictures showing the state of the school, and we will ensure that the government does what is appropriate,” the Commissioner assured.
Dr. Makoda further reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the issue, promising that the necessary renovation would be carried out once proper documentation is received.
