The Catholic Diocese of Katsina in Northern Nigeria has raised alarm over a significant decline in student enrollment due to growing insecurity in the region. Bishop Gerald Mamman Musa highlighted this pressing issue during the diocese’s first-ever Education Summit, shedding light on the challenges facing the education sector in one of Nigeria’s most volatile areas.
The summit, themed “Evangelization through Education for the Growth of Katsina Diocese,” aimed to assess the current state of education and plan for the future. Bishop Musa, in an interview with ACI Africa, pointed out that the Boko Haram insurgency in Northeastern Nigeria has forced many communities to prioritize basic survival over education.
“Parents are hesitant to send their children to boarding schools due to security concerns,” Bishop Musa explained. “Even day schools are affected as children often have to travel long distances, raising fears of kidnapping.” This fear has led to a notable decrease in student enrollment, particularly in boarding schools.
The ongoing insecurity has also displaced numerous communities, compelling families to focus on immediate needs like food and shelter rather than formal education. Bishop Musa urged the Nigerian government to enhance security measures, especially in schools, to restore confidence among parents and students.
The bishop suggested implementing the government’s safe school policy by stationing security personnel in all schools. He also recommended training students in basic self-defense and emergency procedures, without arming them, to increase their sense of safety.
Beyond security concerns, Bishop Musa emphasized the need for a holistic approach to education. He advocated for a system that combines religious and professional training, believing this dual approach would better serve society and improve education quality.
The Catholic Church’s commitment to providing comprehensive education that develops the body, mind, spirit, and intellect was reiterated. “A Catholic education recognizes that human beings are created in the image and likeness of God and deserve a dignified life,” Bishop Musa stated.
The summit also addressed the challenges faced by both girl and boy children in accessing education. While girls are vulnerable to early marriage, boys often struggle with poverty and lack of motivation to continue schooling. The diocese aims to provide equal educational opportunities for both genders from an early age.
Bishop Musa called on the government to improve public education, arguing that well-managed government schools would reduce reliance on expensive private institutions and make quality education more accessible to all children.
While the Catholic Diocese of Katsina’s efforts are commendable, it’s important to note that the education crisis in Northern Nigeria is a complex issue requiring multifaceted solutions. The government’s role in ensuring security and improving public education is crucial, but community involvement and support from non-governmental organizations are also vital.
Some education experts suggest that alternative learning methods, such as remote or community-based education, could help mitigate the impact of insecurity on schooling. Additionally, addressing root causes of insecurity, including poverty and unemployment, could have long-term positive effects on education in the region.
As Northern Nigeria grapples with these challenges, the collaboration between religious institutions, government bodies, and local communities will be key to finding sustainable solutions. The Catholic Diocese of Katsina’s initiative serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize education and security, ensuring a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth despite the current obstacles.
