The Katsina State Government has taken a firm stance on the issue of teacher absenteeism by withholding the salaries of 100 teachers who have been absent from their duty posts without valid reasons. The move aims to address the growing concern over poor attendance in schools and improve the quality of education in the state.
Hajiya Zainab Musawa, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, revealed this decision during the unveiling of a joint education sector coordination committee in Katsina. She expressed serious concern about the rate of absenteeism, noting that during her visit to about 20 schools, no institution had 60 percent of its teachers present.
According to the commissioner, some teachers have been missing from their posts for extended periods, with cases of individuals working in other states while still collecting salaries from Katsina. One particular example involved a teacher who abandoned their duties and relocated, yet continued to receive payments for two years without showing up.
The government’s action sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. Officials have stressed the importance of commitment from all education stakeholders—including teachers, parents, and school administrators—towards enhancing the school system.
The newly formed education sector coordination committee, launched in collaboration with UNICEF, is expected to play a key role in policy formulation, monitoring, and improving education outcomes in the state. It will also promote accountability and transparency, ensuring that resources are well-managed and that teachers fulfill their responsibilities.
Addressing absenteeism through salary withholding may prompt other educators to take their duties seriously, potentially leading to better school attendance, improved student performance, and overall growth in the education sector in Katsina State.
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