In a recent disclosure, the United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has shed light on a deeply concerning education situation prevailing in the North-Eastern states of Nigeria, namely Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe.

Shockingly, the report reveals that approximately 1.6 million children in these states are currently deprived of educational opportunities.

Adding to the alarming statistics, the report highlights that an astonishing 72 percent of school children in the region face significant challenges in reading simple texts beyond grade six. This alarming situation has raised serious concerns about the future prospects of these children and the overall education system in the affected states.

In response to this critical issue, UNICEF has taken proactive steps in collaboration with the governments of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. A crucial knowledge-sharing seminar was recently organized in Maiduguri with the primary aim of promoting awareness about foundational literacy and numeracy models. The seminar draws on the experiences and lessons learned from the implementation of foundational learning programs in North-East Nigeria.

The ongoing humanitarian and developmental challenges in the region are also being given due consideration during the seminar. UNICEF's Chief of Field Office, Phuong Nguyen, emphasized the collective commitment of the government, UNICEF, donor agencies, and development partners to address this pressing concern. They are enthusiastic about sharing innovative methods and best practices acquired through the successful implementation of similar programs in Nigeria.

The seminar has brought together a diverse group of participants, including practitioners, experts, government officials, and members of civil society. The focus of the discussions is to explore effective strategies for fostering Foundational Learning in Nigeria, with a particular emphasis on Teaching at the Right Level (TARL), Kanuri Arithmetic, and reading intervention approaches.

As the education crisis looms large in the North-Eastern region, this collaborative effort by UNICEF and the local governments seeks to chart a path towards a brighter future for the millions of children affected by the lack of access to education and literacy resources. (ILKHA)