GADI CARE FOUNDATION'S OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN PROGRAM; OPENING DOORS TO EDUCATION
Gadi Care Foundation launched the Out-of-School Children Program on January 1st, 2023, at Aminu Saleh College of Education in Azare, Bauchi State. The program aimed to address the educational needs of children in Katagum Local Government Area (LGA) who were not enrolled in school.
The program was blessed by respective dignitaries within Katagum LGA including, but not limited to Sarkin Azare Alhaji Bashar Kabir Umar, former majority leader of the Bauchi State House of Assembly Hon. Tijjani Muh'd Aliyu, the serving BAHA member representing Azare/Madangala Hon. Zakariyya Saleh Maigero, Prof. Yakubu Magaji Azare of Bayero University Kano, Capt. Bala Jibrin, and Alhaji Abdurrashid Andu Aliyu.
A total of 200 pupils and students from primary, junior, and secondary schools in Katagum LGA were selected to participate in the program. Among them, 50 were new enrollees, 50 lacked school uniforms, 50 lacked reading and writing materials, and 50 were unable to afford school fees.
The beneficiaries of the enrollment program were sourced from almost all the wards in Katagum LGA that include Kafin Kuka, Tsakuwa Kofar Gabas, Matsango, Madangala, Kasuwar Kaji/Katsalle and Chara Chara.
Gadi Care Foundation took immediate action to address the specific needs of these children. The new enrollees were promptly enrolled in the following public primary and secondary schools:
1. Baba Kafinta Upper Basic Azare
2. Central Primary School Azare
3. Umar Faruk Primary and Secondary School Azare
4. Yagana Lawan Primary and Secondary School Azare
5. Government Day Junior Secondary School, Katsalle
6. Bakoshi Primary School
7. Government Day Junior and Senior Secondary School Nasarawa
8. Ahmed Turaki Secondary School Azare
9. Government Technical Senior Secondary School Azare (Vocational)
The foundation provided school uniforms for those lacking them, ensuring a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Students without reading and writing materials were equipped with the necessary tools, while school fees were covered for those unable to afford them.
Furthermore, 50 students were selected to attend a year-long intensive training course at Ummul Qura Science Academy in Azare. This training aimed to provide fundamental reading and writing skills before transitioning to regular academic studies.
The Out-of-School Children Program has had a significant impact on the educational landscape of Katagum LGA. By addressing the specific challenges faced by these children, the program has created opportunities for them to receive a quality education and build a brighter future.
Gadi Care Foundation remains committed to expanding its efforts and reaching more out-of-school children. Through collaboration, partnerships, and resource mobilization, the foundation aims to extend the transformative power of education to even more marginalized children.
The Out-of-School Children Program stands as a beacon of hope, opening doors to education for children who previously had limited or no access to schooling. Gadi Care Foundation continues to create positive change, empowering children to overcome barriers and pursue their educational dreams.