Katsina Launches Free Smart Schools For Rural Students

Katsina State governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has unveiled a new initiative aimed at giving children from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds access to world-class education — completely free of charge.

The announcement came as Governor Radda led 17 European Union envoys on a visit to Dumurkul Model Secondary School in Daura, one of three modern schools established across the state’s three political zones.

“These schools provide opportunities for children from rural and disadvantaged communities. Admission is merit-based, focusing on students from public schools and rural areas,” Governor Radda said in a statement issued by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, his Chief Press Secretary.

“The aim is to build the future of those who otherwise might not have opportunities, ensuring that in the next 20 to 30 years, these students can compete on the global stage,” he added.

Each school is equipped with 24-hour electricity, ICT-fitted classrooms, hostels, and internet access. Education and all essential services are provided at no cost to students, giving them the tools to thrive in a competitive world.

Hon. Yusuf Suleiman Jibia, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, said the Dumurkul school is nearly complete and will be commissioned within two weeks, with students already enrolled and teachers recruited. “These model schools are outfitted with state-of-the-art teaching and learning materials and are designed to expand to other zones in the future,” he noted.

The Netherlands Ambassador, Bengt van Loosdrecht, commended the Katsina State Government for its commitment to quality education and modern learning infrastructure. Similarly, the Egyptian Ambassador, Mohamed Fouad, praised the state for sustaining its cultural heritage, noting the remarkable cultural night held the previous evening.

Governor Radda also led the delegation to the historic Kusugu Well in Daura, a site dating back approximately 2,005 years. “Kusugu Well is central to the history of Katsina. Immortalising this heritage alongside our educational investments helps preserve the legacy of our people,” he said.

The delegation included the deputy governor, Hon. Faruk Lawal Jobe; the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abdullahi Garba Faskari; members of the Katsina State Executive Council; and other top government officials.