UK Foundation Supports 194,054 Pupils To Improve Learning Outcomes In Jigawa

The Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE), a UK-funded project, has supported 194,054 pupils to improve learning skills and foundational learning outcomes in Jigawa State.

The project, which commenced three years ago, has so far recorded significant achievements in enhancing teaching and learning outcomes above the state average.

Speaking at a stakeholder meeting to share the 2024/2025 Learning Assessment Outcomes in Dutse, the Commissioner for Basic Education, Lawan Yunusa Danzomo, said the state government would continue to collaborate with PLANE and other partners to reposition the education sector.

He noted that the state government has been working tirelessly to improve learning outcomes through the recruitment of over 8,000 teachers, the construction and renovation of classrooms, the provision of teaching and learning materials and classroom furniture, and by strengthening supervision ,and community participation in school management as well as other innovations.

According to a report shared at the meeting, the PLANE project was piloted in 750 schools with 2,522 teachers across 12 local government areas. It aims to address learning poverty, particularly at the foundational level.

The project targets Primary 1-4 pupils, and evidence has shown that 78.5% of learners have progressed to higher levels, with 76.8% of Primary 2 and 4 pupils exceeding foundational numeracy benchmarks.

Under the programme, PLANE has supported beneficiary teachers with regular training, technical support, school monitoring, instructional materials, teachers’ guides, and has strengthened community participation in school management.

In collaboration with the state government, PLANE conducted a midline assessment during the 2024/2025 school year, focusing on literacy and numeracy using early-grade reading and mathematics assessments.

Results showed that the average learner in PLANE-supported schools reads 13.3 words per minute, compared to 3.8 words per minute in control schools.

The report added that Jigawa State is making steady progress in strengthening foundational learning, with improvements in numeracy and literacy, and more learners advancing beyond the beginner level.

PLANE called for sustained investment in education, continued support and professional development for teachers, ongoing government commitment, and deeper community engagement to ensure all learners master the foundational skills they need to thrive.