Kano PTA and SBMC Fault Minister of State for Education Over Comments on Mother-Tongue Teaching

By JB Danlami

The Kano State Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and the School-Based Management Committee (SBMC) 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 PTA and SBMC in 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 PTA Chairman, Alhaji Dalhatu Mai Jimiri, and the SBMC Chairman, Alhaji Tijjani Haladu Baraya, 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.as contained in a Press Release signed by the  Chairman of the State SBMC and State PTA Chairman , Alhaji Tijjani Haladu Baraya and Alhaji Dalhatu Salihu Maijimiri.