Katsina, Kebbi, and Bauchi Shut Schools for Ramadan; Parents Push Back

The governments of Katsina, Kebbi, and Bauchi states have ordered all schools, both public and private, to close for the entire month of Ramadan. The directive, aimed at allowing students and teachers to observe the Islamic holy month, has drawn mixed reactions from parents and school administrators.

In Kebbi State, the revised academic calendar for 2024/2025 indicates that the second term ended on February 28, with schools resuming for the third term on April 7. Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the state governor, confirmed the decision, emphasizing that the break would allow the Muslim community to engage in fasting, prayers, and other religious activities. He urged schools to comply and wished Muslim faithful a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan.

Katsina State issued a similar directive, with the Hisbah Board enforcing the closure of all private schools. A statement from Dr. Aminu Usman, Commander General of the board, explicitly warned against non-compliance, stating that the directive also applies to extra lessons. He urged school proprietors to adhere strictly to the order, adding, “May Allah accept our fast and grant us His blessings.”

In Bauchi State, the Ministry of Education ordered a 40-day closure of all schools, including privately owned and faith-based institutions. The government justified the decision by stating that it would allow Muslim students to observe the fast at home with their families.

The decision has been met with concerns from parents, who fear it will disrupt academic progress, particularly for students preparing for crucial external examinations such as WAEC, NECO, and JAMB. Amos Ayuba, a parent in Bauchi, expressed frustration, noting that his daughter, who is in SS3, might struggle to catch up after the break. He suggested that instead of a full closure, schools should reduce hours to allow students to leave early.

Another parent criticized the timing, questioning the logic of teaching students for two months, sending them on a month-long break, and then expecting them to sit for exams immediately upon return. A Muslim mother, speaking anonymously, urged Governor Bala Mohammed to reconsider, emphasizing his track record in education.

The Association of Christian Private Schools has also appealed for a review. Reverend Musa Bogoro Zakka, chairman of the association, warned that forcing all students to stay home regardless of their faith could affect peaceful coexistence. He proposed making the holiday optional, arguing that previous education policies in Bauchi had been more inclusive. He also pointed out that while nursery, primary, and secondary schools were being shut down, tertiary institutions, civil servants, and private businesses would continue operating as usual, raising concerns about discrimination against private education.

Reverend Raphael Adetunmibi, proprietor of Baptist Royal Academy in Bauchi, echoed these concerns. He emphasized the potential negative impact on educational standards and stressed the need for consultations with relevant stakeholders before making such sweeping policy decisions. He suggested that private schools be given the option to remain open rather than being forced to close.