How Kano Grapples with Inadequate Toilet Facilities, Shortages of Teaching Staff in Schools

By Ahmad Muhammad.

The shortage of staff and inadequate toilet facilities are two significant challenges that can hinder the learning process in some schools in Kano State

Despite the effort of the State Government in improving conducive atmosphere for learning in government owned schools, the two major challenges can have far-reaching consequences on the education, health, and well-being of the students.

During the recent education tour conducted by the members of Kano State Correspondents’ Chapel, investigation revealed that teachers and students resorted to defecate in an open space due to lack of toilets facilities within the school environments.

One of the teachers, highlighted the health risks of inadequate toilet facilities which he said can lead to the spread of diseases, such as diarrhea, cholera, and other water-borne illnesses among students.

He said, “Students who do not have access to clean, safe, and private toilet facilities may feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, or distracted, which can negatively impact their ability to focus and learn.”

At Yelwa Model Primary School in Dala, some pupils lamented the shortage of toilets, saying they have no option but to defecate in an open space when nature calls.

“We need the government to come to our aid and build at least ten toilets for our convenience,” they appealed.

The school’s headmaster, Umar Aliyu, painted a grim picture of the challenges facing the school.

With a total enrollment of 1164 pupils, the school has only 31 teachers, resulting in a significant shortage of teaching staff.

The school’s toilet situation is dire, with only two functional toilets serving the entire student population.

In most of the schools visited, there were not enough teachers as the existing staff may have to take on additional responsibilities, leading to an increased workload and potential burnout.

With a higher student-to-teacher ratio, students may not have the needed individual attention they require, which can negatively impact their academic performance.

In Ungogo Special Primary School, Ungogo Local Government area, the headmaster, Haladu Tanko, decried the shortage of staff and toilets. With 2943 pupils and only 15 teachers, saying that, the school is struggling to provide quality education.

The Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, has been commended for its commitment to uplifting the standard of education, especially with the recent declaration of the state of emergency on Education sector in the state.

However, more needs to be done to address the pressing issues of inadequate toilet facilities, shortage of teaching staff, and insecurity in primary and secondary schools across the state.

Despite the increase in budgetary allocation to education, in the 2025 budget by the state government, donors and private individuals should prioritize education to augment the effort of the state government in reviving education sector.