The Kano State School-Based Management Committee (SBMC) and the Parent- Teachers Association (PTA) have reacted strongly to the remarks made by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, during the Language in Education and Inclusive Conference organized by the British Council in Abuja.
In her presentation, the Minister criticized the use of mother tongue as a medium of instruction in Nigerian schools and singled out Kano State, alleging that “even at the senior secondary level, teaching is being conducted in Hausa,” which she described as evidence of educational failure in the state. She further stated that the Federal Government has cancelled all efforts aimed at implementing mother-tongue instruction nationwide.
In a swift reaction, the leadership of the SBMC and PTA Kano State expressed deep concern and disappointment over the Minister’s comments, describing them as unfair, misleading, and harmful to the image of the state.
The State SBMC Chairman, Alhaji Tijjani Haladu Baraya, and PTA Chairman, Alhaji Dalhatu Salihu Mai Jimiri, said it was unacceptable for the Minister—who has herself benefited from educational opportunities supported by Kano—to portray the state as backward.
They noted that Kano has made notable progress in strengthening basic and secondary education, adding that the strategic use of mother tongue at foundational levels is a globally recognized practice that enhances learning, not a sign of weakness.
Both leaders called on the State Government, the State House of Assembly, and relevant stakeholders to safeguard Kano’s educational achievements and not allow individuals “with questionable intentions” to distort the state’s progress.
They urged authorities to address the Minister’s claims with urgency and ensure that Kano’s reputation and ongoing educational reforms are defended.
