A cross section of participants at the meeting

The formulation of the State Education Strategic Plan (SESP) and State Education Strategic Operation Plan (SESOP) has been described as a testament to the collective vision for an inclusive, equitable, and quality education system in Nigeria.

These plans are not just documents; they are blueprints for the future of the children, the foundation of the nation’s growth, and the beacon guiding it toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 which is ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

The assertion was made by the Ag Director General/CEO, National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) Nigerian, Ondo, Dr. A. D. Shofoyeke, at the opening ceremony of UNICEF/NIEPA collaboration on the dissemination of Education Sector Plans (SESP/SESOP) for eight states in Nigeria held in Bauchi on Friday.

According to him, “Our journey here has been one of collaboration, consultation, and comprehensive planning. We have engaged stakeholders at all levels – from educators and administrators to parents and community leaders.”

He added that, “This inclusive approach has ensured that our plans are reflective of the diverse needs and aspirations of our society. It is this inclusiveness that will drive the success of our initiatives.”

He stressed that, “The SESP and SESOP are holistic in that they cover all levels of education namely Pre-primary, primary, JSS, nomadic, IQTE, Adult and Non-Formal education, senior secondary school, etc.”

The SESP and SESOP outline strategic priorities that address critical areas such as: Access to education, Quality of teaching and learning as well as Governance and emerging issues (Gender Responsive Education Sector Plan (GRESP), Disability Inclusiveness, Climate/Crisis resilient plans)

Dr. Shofoyeke stressed that, “These plans are designed to tackle the challenges that have historically hindered our progress while leveraging opportunities to innovate and improve. Our focus is on creating a resilient education system capable of adapting to the dynamic needs of the 21st century.

“Key to our plans is the emphasis on equity and inclusion. We are committed to breaking down barriers that prevent marginalized and vulnerable groups from accessing quality education. By prioritizing the needs of these groups, we aim to create a more just and fair society where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” he added.

Furthermore, the quality of education remains at the heart of the efforts dedicated to enhancing the capacity of teachers, improving the learning environment, and integrating technology to foster a more engaging and effective educational experience.

Professional development, curriculum reform, and innovative teaching methodologies will be pivotal in the endeavour.

He added that, “As we embark on this ambitious journey, I call upon each one of you to remain steadfast in your dedication and support. The dissemination of these plans marks the beginning of a new chapter in our educational landscape. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to unite in our efforts to transform our education system.”

He then urged the participants to remember that the future of the state lies in the hands of the children stating that,”By implementing the SESP and SESOP with integrity, commitment, and collaboration, we are investing in their future.”

He added that, “Together, we can build an education system that is not only robust and resilient but also one that inspires hope, fosters innovation, and cultivates the leaders of tomorrow.”

In her remarks, the Bauchi State Commissioner of Education, Dr Jamila Dahiru commended UNICEF for supporting the state in development of plans to improve the quality of service delivery in the sector.

She also commended NIEPA for embarking on the exercise which She believes will help in ensuring the appropriate allocation of resources to programme implementation.

The Commissioner however decried the non availability of updated data in the planning of operation stressing that updated data is very important in planning education policies.

Jamila assured that Government will work with the outcome of the meeting in order to move the education sector forward.