By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has organized a capacity-building workshop for 448 secondary school principals and quality assurance officers to strengthen school management and improve teaching and learning outcomes across the state.
Declaring the three-day training open at the Sultan Maccido Institute for Qur’anic and General Studies, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Ahmad Ladan Ala, said the programme was designed to refresh the knowledge of school leaders and equip them with practical tools to effectively manage schools and drive academic excellence.
“When we assumed office, we discovered that many of our secondary school principals were relatively new to the system. This training is therefore necessary to build their capacity to manage schools, monitor and evaluate academic programmes, ensure that teachers are committed to their duties, and engage parents in enrolling and supporting their children’s education,” he said.
Information Officer Ibrahim Iya said Prof. Ala explained that the training also aligns with Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s commitment to transforming the education sector, as outlined in his nine-point SMART agenda. He stressed that without proper leadership and management at the school level, the government’s investment in education may not achieve the desired results.
The commissioner emphasized the importance of regular training and retraining of education officers, noting the dynamic nature of the teaching profession.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Quality Assurance, Alhaji Abdulkadir Umar Alkammawa, thanked the governor and the commissioner for initiating the workshop. He noted that it was the first time in several years such a comprehensive programme was being organized for principals and quality assurance officers in the state. According to him, the 448 participants include 329 principals and 119 quality assurance officers.
He urged participants to take the training seriously and apply the knowledge gained to improve the quality of education in their schools.
The Director of Administration, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Salame, who represented the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, delivered the welcome address. He appreciated the participants for attending and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of UNICEF, Gbemisola Yussuff Foundation, Life Helpers Initiative, and the Chairman of the Private School Operators Association. They commended the initiative and pledged support for future programmes.
The training features seasoned education experts and facilitators, including Dr. Hadiza Shehu Dange, Mallam Abdullahi Marafa, Prof. B. U. Faruk, Prof. Sani Jabo, and Dr. Shehu Adamu Kiliya, who will deliver presentations on educational leadership, quality assurance, and best teaching practices.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to continuous professional development for educators as a critical step toward achieving quality and inclusive education for all children in Sokoto State.
