Since taking office in 2019, the administration of Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has made significant investments in the education sector. The government's approach has centered on human capital development, with a strong emphasis on education. This has involved various interventions aimed at improving school infrastructure, increasing access to education, and enhancing the welfare of teachers. The administration's efforts have targeted multiple areas, including the recruitment of new teachers, provision of scholarships, and promotion of girl-child education.
A key aspect of the administration's education programme has been the investment in school infrastructure across Adamawa State. The government has constructed 21 model schools, each covering nursery, primary, and junior secondary education, with one located in each of the state's 21 Local Government Areas. Additionally, comprehensive science and technical secondary schools have been developed in Hong, Lamurde, and Gulak, along with supporting infrastructure such as access roads and drainage systems. These physical investments aim to create conducive learning environments.
The administration has also undertaken significant renovations and upgrades to existing educational facilities. A total of 1,670 classrooms have been renovated across the state, and 85,340 two-seater desks and chairs have been provided for students, alongside 22,467 tables and chairs for teachers and administrators. Furthermore, 449 VIP toilets have been constructed and rehabilitated, motorised boreholes have been installed in 56 schools, and fencing projects have been carried out to improve security in schools.
In addition to infrastructure development, the administration has implemented policies aimed at reducing the financial burden of education on families. The government has introduced free and compulsory basic and secondary education, removing fees and levies in public schools. This move is expected to increase enrolment and retention rates. The administration has also taken steps to support students in completing their secondary education and pursuing tertiary studies by paying WAEC, NECO, and other examination fees for eligible students.
The administration has also prioritized the welfare of teachers and the development of the teaching workforce. This has involved the recruitment of new teachers to address staffing gaps and improve the teacher-student ratio. Moreover, the government has implemented initiatives to support the professional development of teachers, enhancing their skills and competencies. By strengthening the teaching workforce, the administration aims to improve the quality of education in the state.
Scholarships and overseas education programmes have been another critical component of the administration's education strategy. The Adamawa State Scholarship Trust Fund has supported more than 85,000 beneficiaries, providing financial assistance to students. The Fintiri Wings initiative, an overseas scholarship programme, has enabled beneficiaries to pursue studies in countries such as Turkey, Australia, Canada, and India, in disciplines including medicine, engineering, and the sciences.
The establishment of the Adamawa State College of Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Studies in Gulak represents another significant investment in the education sector. This institution focuses on practical skills, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, reflecting the administration's commitment to equipping students with the skills required to drive economic growth and development. By implementing these various initiatives, the administration aims to improve learning outcomes, increase access to education, and reduce the number of out-of-school children in the state.
Key points
- The Fintiri administration has invested in school infrastructure, including the construction of 21 model schools and renovation of 1,670 classrooms.
- The government has implemented policies to reduce the financial burden of education, including free and compulsory basic and secondary education.
- The administration has provided scholarships to over 85,000 beneficiaries through the Adamawa State Scholarship Trust Fund.
