How many out-of-school children were reported in Kano State in 2023?

The 2023 UNICEF data recorded 989,234 out-of-school children in Kano State.

What factors contributed to the reduction in out-of-school children?

The reduction is credited to increased government investment in education, school infrastructure improvements, and partnerships with organizations like UNICEF.

Kano State Reports 875,593 Out-of-School Children

Official survey shows reduction from previous estimates, credits government interventions and partnerships for progress.

Flat illustration of school buildings with empty classrooms and dusty textbooks.

2026-08-14 · Updated 2026-08-14

The Kano State Ministry of Education has released its 2026 Out-of-School Children Survey Report, which reveals that 875,593 children are currently not attending school across the state's 44 local government areas. The report was disseminated at an event attended by government officials, development partners, and other education stakeholders.

The Commissioner for Education, Gwani Dr. Ali Haruna Abubakar Makoda, stated that the new figure represents a reduction of 113,641 children, or 11.5 percent, compared to the 989,234 recorded in the 2023 UNICEF data. He described the decrease as encouraging evidence that sustained interventions and investments in education are yielding positive results.

Makoda emphasized that the 2026 data is based on a verified statewide survey, providing disaggregated information by local government, age, and gender, unlike previous estimates derived from national samples. This accurate data will serve as a baseline for evidence-based planning, policy formulation, and targeted interventions.

The progress is attributed to the Kano State Government's increased investment in education, including school construction and rehabilitation, provision of learning materials, free uniform distribution, and enrolment drives. Collaboration with UNICEF and other development partners has also strengthened data management and support systems.

Despite the reduction, Makoda stressed that the number of children still out of school underscores the need for renewed and coordinated efforts. He urged stakeholders to use the report's findings to develop practical solutions tailored to community needs and called on parents and leaders to support enrolment initiatives.

FAQ

How many out-of-school children were reported in Kano State in 2023?: The 2023 UNICEF data recorded 989,234 out-of-school children in Kano State.
What factors contributed to the reduction in out-of-school children?: The reduction is credited to increased government investment in education, school infrastructure improvements, and partnerships with organizations like UNICEF.