The Nasarawa State Government has officially launched the State Policy on Gender in Education, marking a major milestone in its continuous efforts to promote inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all learners. The event also featured the unveiling of the policy’s implementation guidelines, aimed at strengthening the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project in the state.
The new framework is designed to remove barriers that limit access to education, especially for girls and vulnerable learners. These barriers include poverty, early marriage, gender-based violence, and the lack of inclusive learning facilities. The policy also aligns with key global and national education commitments such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 5, the National Policy on Gender in Education (2001), and the Child Rights Act (2005).
Speaking at the official launch, Hon. Abel Bala, Chairman of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly Committee on Education, Science, and Technology, praised the initiative and reaffirmed the legislature’s support for gender-responsive educational reforms.
“Empowering girls through education is not just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do,” he stated.
The Commissioner for Education and Chairman of the AGILE State Steering Committee, Dr. John Mamman, described the policy launch as a key achievement under the leadership of Governor Abdullahi Sule. He said it demonstrates the administration’s strong commitment to advancing education reforms in Nasarawa State.
“This policy will expand opportunities for marginalized learners, particularly girls, and enhance school enrollment, retention, and completion rates in Nasarawa State,” Dr. Mamman said.
AGILE State Coordinator, Hajiya Aishatu Isoga Aliyu, also commended the state government for its continuous support and urged traditional and religious leaders to intensify advocacy on the importance of educating the girl child.
Mr. Aloko William, State President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), highlighted the AGILE project’s impact, noting improvements in school infrastructure, water and sanitation facilities, and the supply of essential learning materials across several schools in the state.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Mrs. Julian Polycarp, Deputy Project Coordinator of AGILE, described the launch as a “key milestone” in promoting gender equity in education. She announced that Nasarawa is the third out of 18 AGILE-participating states to formally launch the Gender Policy and urged the State House of Assembly to prioritise its passage when presented as a bill.
The 123-page policy document provides a comprehensive guide to ensure the effective, inclusive, and sustainable implementation of the AGILE project in Nasarawa State.
