In a significant move to elevate educational standards and ensure the success of final-year students, the Katsina State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has introduced a comprehensive action plan for extra lessons targeting SS3 students across public, private, and community schools.
This initiative, announced in a press release signed by Sani Danjuma Suleiman, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ministry, aims to guarantee optimal performance in the upcoming 2025 Senior Secondary Certification Examinations (SSCE), Under the leadership of Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON.
The Ministry is committed to fostering greater educational excellence, building on the recently approved State Annual School Year Calendar.
The introduction of these extra lessons marks a strategic effort to support students as they prepare for critical external examinations, including the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO), National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), and National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS).
The Ministry’s directive ensures that students adhere to the approved syllabus for these exams, setting a solid foundation for academic success.
Balancing Academic Pursuits with Ramadan Observances
A key consideration in this announcement is the State’s existing law mandating the closure of all schools during the sacred month of Ramadan.
Recognizing the importance of this religious observance, the Ministry has emphasized the need for students preparing for exit exams to continue their studies without disruption.
As a result, Sani Danjuma Suleiman has directed all public, private, and community schools to commence extra lessons starting March 3, 2025. This measure is designed to minimize disruptions to the final-year academic calendar, ensuring students do not fall behind in their studies while still honoring the Holy month of Ramadan.
The Ministry acknowledges the unique challenges posed by this period and is urging schools to make necessary adjustments to the extra lesson schedule. By doing so, schools can ensure that students remain engaged appropriately throughout the second term holiday, maintaining momentum in their academic pursuits.
This thoughtful approach reflects the State Government’s commitment to supporting students’ educational goals while respecting cultural and religious sensitivities.
State Government’s Commitment to Inclusive Education
The Katsina State Government, through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, is actively developing plans to support this initiative.
Schools are encouraged to create a supportive and inclusive environment that caters to students of all faiths and backgrounds. This effort is intended to foster a culture of understanding, respect, and academic excellence, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
The press release emphasizes that all schools must prioritize these values as they implement the new directive.
Sani Danjuma Suleiman’s announcement also clarifies that the directives outlined in this press release supersede all previous public announcements, underscoring the urgency and importance of this educational strategy.
The Ministry’s proactive stance demonstrates its dedication to preparing students for the 2025 SSCE and beyond, positioning Katsina State as a leader in educational innovation.
For further inquiries or clarification, the press release is addressed to the Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, reinforcing the official nature of this directive.
This initiative not only highlights the State’s commitment to academic excellence but also its sensitivity to the cultural and religious fabric of its communities.
