As part of its activities to improve learning outcomes in Kaduna, a UK-funded educational programme, Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE) has recommended an effective book management system across public schools in the state.
PLANE gave the recommendation yesterday during its presentation of findings from the Book Management and Use Survey (BMUS) held in Kaduna.
Presenting the BMUS findings, the State Reform Facilitator of PLANE, Mubarak Siraj, explained that BMUS was conducted in 60 sample schools across 14 LGAs in Kaduna of which 50 per cent were supported by PLANE.
Siraj said, “The survey aimed at identifying factors contributing to book deterioration, assess current distribution, storage, and utilization practices, and collaborate with stakeholders to develop solutions for improving the longevity and efficiency of educational materials.”
Presenting the key findings, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Bamidele Gbenga, explained that inadequate storage infrastructure and improper book handling practices significantly contribute to the rapid deterioration of books, reducing their lifespan and effectiveness in the classroom.
He noted that inefficient distribution processes, combined with poor communication, lead to delays in book delivery, reducing learning opportunities.
Gbenga lamented that insufficient book management training made the challenges harder, adding that financial inefficiencies also arose from frequent replacements due to poor book management.
He recommended that books must be delivered before the academic year begins to ensure curriculum alignment and enable students to access learning materials throughout critical periods.
He noted the need for developing and implementing a pre-distribution communication system, including track and trace to alert schools about incoming shipments, allowing them to prepare for receipt and storage effectively.
Earlier in his remarks, the Director Planning, Ministry of Education, Kaduna State, Salisu Baba Lawal lamented mismanagement and misuse of books and learning materials by some schools.
“When books are well-managed, they last longer, and students can use them throughout their academic journey. This, in turn, improves learning outcomes and helps to bridge the educational gap”
Lawal commended PLANE for their findings and recommendations, saying that the survey brought out why these books were mismanaged.
One of the participants at the event, the co-chair of the Kaduna Basic Education Accountability Mechanism (KADBEAM), Aliyu Ahmed Tijjani, said, “We must ensure maintenance culture, especially in the face of scarce resources; this will lessen the burden of the government.”
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