From Abdullahi Shugaba, in Katsina
The Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has announced automatic employment to all indigenes of Katsina that graduated with First-Class Degrees from all Universities across the country.
The announcement was made at the Maiden Katsina State Students’ Week organized by the Office of the Special Assistant on Student Matters to the governor held at the Bayero University, Kano.
Radda who was in attendance at the occasion explained that the policy was initially limited to only first-class graduates who graduated from institutions within Katsina State but the policy is now extended to all Katsina indigenes that graduated from universities and institutions across the country.
“I am pleased to announce the expansion of our automatic employment initiative, automatic job opportunities not to only first-class graduates in institutions within Katsina alone but to all indigenes of Katsina from all Universities and highervinstitutions nationwide,” he said.
He noted that the initiative is designed to strengthen the state civil service and build a highly skilled, competitive workforce capable of delivering efficient public services.
“This is a deliberate effort to build a highly vibrant and competitive civil service that is equal with any civil service in any state in the Nigeria and even at the federal level,” he added.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the performance of Katsina students, describing their participation in the Students’ Week as a demonstration of discipline, creativity, and academic excellence.
He commended stakeholders and development partners in the education sector for their continuous contributions to reforms and policy implementation in the state.
According to him, the reforms are driven by long-term plans to address students enrolment and infrastructures in schools
The governor recalled that 21 years ago, when he served as Local Government Chairman, school infrastructure in his local governt area (Charanci) were significantly appreciable
“Despite the expansion, the school still operates in shifts due to the continued and growing demand for access to education”, he noted.
He reaffirmed that education remains the top priority of his administration that receives one of the highest allocations.
He disclosed that over 10,000 teachers have been recruited on merit, alongside the construction of more than 100 new secondary schools across the state.
He stressed that meaningful development can only be achieved through education. ”
“That is why we have made it our topmost priority and invested heavily in both human and infrastructural capacity,” he added.
He pointed out that currently there are over 3,000 primary schools and nearly about 600 secondary schools ooerating across the state.
According to him, the teaching workforce remains the largest segment of the state civil service.
The Governor also highlighted the introduction of modern smart school model aimed at providing world-class education opportunities, especially for gifted and talented students from rural communities.
On youth innovation, Governor Radda encouraged young people to convert ideas into viable businesses and directed the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency to support entrepreneurship and job creation initiatives.
On requests raised during the programme, the Governor directed the Secretary to the State Government to approve a waiver for the Special Assistant on Student Matters to be presented in the State Executive Council.
He also approved the establishment of Student Business Centres in institutions hosting such programmes to promote entrepreneurship among students.
On student welfare, he assured that his administration is reviewing allowances for students in nursing and health-related institutions and has directed relevant agencies to address the existing gaps.
“I have directed the Scholarship Board, Ministry of Health, and the Head of Service to take immediate note on critical issues raised, particularly regarding allowances for nursing and health technology students,”.
Governor Radda further disclosed that his administration has settled the payment of scholarships for 2021, 2022, 2023, up to 2026
He added that Katsina State is currently sponsoring students abroad in fields such as Medicine, Artificial Intelligence, and Biotechnology in countries including Ethiopia and Russia, covering tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses.
He reiterated that his policies are designed to support students from less privileged backgrounds to ensure that no talent is left behind.
He urged the students to discharge their civic responsibility positively for national development and avoid spreading negative narratives.
“We have no any other country than Nigeria. whatever we say or do will ultimately affects us”
He also cautioned against misuse of social media, urging students to promote unity and responsible engagement in online.
Governor Radda noted that leadership is temporary, emphasizing the importance of continuity in development efforts.
“Katsina State will remain for generations to com, therefore, everyone must contribute positively to its development”
Earlier, Special Assistant on Students’ Matters, Comrade. Nuhu Nagaske, commended Governor Radda’s commitment to student welfare and education, noting that his policies have improved opportunities for Katsina students and strengthened unity and academic excellence.
He described the Students’ Week as a timely initiative that has strengthened unity, academic excellence, and engagement among students.
The Maiden Katsina State Students’ Week featured academic, cultural, and innovation-driven activities aimed at promoting unity, creativity, and intellectual engagement among students.
Those who attended the programme include the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, ably represented by the member representing Katsina Local Government, Hon. Aliyu Albaba; the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, Barr. Abdullahi Garba Faskari; the Chief of Staff, Hon. Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; the Head of Service, Alhaji Falalu Bawale; members of the State Executive Council; and the Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, Prof. Haruna Musa, among others.
