By Sani Idris Abdulrahman

Children in Kaduna state, Igabi Local Government Area (LGA), have raised alarm over worsening school public schools condition, citing flooding, poor infrastructure, and insecurity as major threats to their education and safety.

The concerns were voiced on Saturday in Kaduna, during an advocacy engagement involving pupils from primary schools across Igabi LGA, who called on authorities to urgently address their plight.

Newsmen reports that the children, drawn from Child Rights Advocacy Clubs, highlighted how climate-related challenges and neglect have made learning environments increasingly unsafe and unconducive.

Newsmen also reports that the event, was supported by Safe the Children International (SCI), through the Education Cannot Wait (ECW) funded project.

Safiya Sunusi from LGEA Primary School, Layin Dactawa, Rigasa, lamented the poor state of school infrastructure, noting that damaged buildings and inadequate facilities disrupt effective learning.

She identified key issues including poor drainage systems, dilapidated classrooms, and lack of basic amenities such as doors, windows, and functional ceilings.

Similarly, Ummukhulsum Bilyaminu of LGEA Primary School Turunku Sabuwa, decried the impact of flooding, which often makes access roads to schools impassable and dangerous for pupils.

The pupils further stressed the need for improved security measures, provision of adequate classrooms to reduce congestion, and access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

They warned that without urgent intervention, the current conditions would continue to endanger their health, safety, and academic progress.

The children also called for inclusive education, urging authorities and communities not to discriminate against pupils with physical disabilities.

They emphasised that school facilities should be designed to accommodate all learners, regardless of their physical conditions.

Speaking on the issue, Murtala Adamu, Community Head of Mashi Gwari, Rigasa, Igabi LGA, said the community had long cried out over the deteriorating condition of schools.

He noted that the challenges had overwhelmed the community, stressing that addressing them lies squarely with the government.

Similarly, Haruna Musa, Village Head of Nariya, described the state of schools in his area as deplorable and in urgent need of intervention.

He said repeated complaints to school authorities had yielded no results, leaving the community frustrated and concerned.

Musa also called for improved security in schools, especially after renovation, to safeguard facilities and students.

In his remarks, the Education Secretary of Igabi LGA, Yahaya Bala, emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing the issues.

Bala, represented by Mr Ibrahim Muhammad, assured that the concerns raised would be harmonised and forwarded to appropriate authorities for action.

Also speaking, Altine Lewi, Programme Manager of the ECW project implemented by Save the Children, said the initiative focuses on improving access to education.

She explained that the programme supports children affected by insecurity and climate change, ensuring they return to school and learn in safe environments.

Lewi added that the advocacy engagement was designed to amplify children’s voices and enable them to directly present their challenges to government and community leaders.

She noted that many schools lack basic infrastructure, including roofs, fences, and learning materials, exposing pupils to various risks.

According to her, the project also promotes inclusion, particularly for children with disabilities who often face barriers in accessing education.

Lewi stressed the need for collective action by government, parents, and communities to create safe, inclusive, and conducive learning environments for all children.

Newsmen reports that at the event, the children used artistic expressions and drama to show their concerns about dangers of unhealthy school environment, inclusivity and poor infrastructure.