By Milcah Tanimu
The Kaduna State government has introduced a N1 billion loan initiative designed to support primary and secondary school teachers in advancing their education. This was announced by the executive secretary of the Kaduna State Scholarship and Loans Board, Yaya Ibrahim, on Tuesday during the 2nd Annual National Conference organized by the National Teachers’ Institute in Kaduna.
According to Ibrahim, the scheme aims to help teachers with National Certificate in Education (NCE) and undergraduate degrees further their studies. The loan program intends to encourage teachers to pursue higher education, addressing concerns about their reluctance to do so. Ibrahim also mentioned that discussions are underway with international institutions to offer additional opportunities for teachers to study abroad.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve the quality of education in the state. In addition to the loan scheme, Ibrahim revealed that the board has already sent 50 female students abroad to study cybercrime and ICT-related fields. The board also offers skills training for primary school pupils, preparing them for self-reliance in the future.
Ibrahim commended the National Teachers’ Institute for its efforts in organizing the conference and reiterated the state’s commitment to collaborating in training more educators to enhance the state’s educational standards.