Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has declared that the state’s newly established model smart schools are designed to provide children from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds with world-class education—completely free of charge.
The governor made the declaration on Sunday when he led 17 European Union envoys on a visit to Dumurkul Model Secondary School in Daura, one of three modern schools his administration has established across the state’s three political zones.
“These schools provide opportunities for children from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds. Admission is merit-based, focusing on students from public schools and rural communities.
“The aim is to build the future of those who otherwise might not have opportunities, ensuring that in the next 20 to 30 years, these students can compete on the global stage,” he said.
Radda revealed that each school is equipped with 24-hour electricity, ICT-enabled classrooms, hostels, and internet access, with education and all essential services provided at no cost to students.
Receiving the delegation, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Yusuf Suleiman Jibia, disclosed that the Dumurkul school was nearly complete and would be commissioned within two weeks, with students already enrolled and teachers recruited.
“These model schools are equipped with state-of-the-art teaching and learning materials and are designed to expand to other zones in the future,” Jibia said.
The Netherlands Ambassador, Bengt van Loosdrecht, expressed satisfaction with the project, commending the Katsina State Government for its commitment to improving access to quality education and investing in modern learning infrastructure.
After the school visit, the delegation proceeded to the historic Kusugu Well in Daura, a site believed to date back approximately 2,005 years.
“Kusugu Well is central to the history of Katsina. Immortalising this heritage alongside our educational investments helps preserve the legacy of our people,” Radda said.
The Egyptian Ambassador, Mohamed Fouad, commended the governor for sustaining and preserving the state’s historical heritage. He also described the cultural night held the previous evening as a remarkable showcase of Katsina’s rich traditions.
The delegation included the Deputy Governor, Faruk Lawal Jobe; the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba Faskari; members of the Katsina State Executive Council; and other top government officials.
