By Grace Udofia
Nigeria’s Ministry of Education has disclosed that it is partnering with the international community to fight the incessant attacks on educational institutions.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Sonny Echono made the disclosure when he received a delegation comprising the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Knut Eiliv Lein; the United Nations Children’s Fund, (UNICEF), Country Representative, Peter Hawkins; among others.
This decision by the Nigerian government follows the increasing level of kidnapping of school children by bandits, most especially in the Northern part of Nigeria.
According to Echono, the decision follows the resolve to make schools safer and more conducive for teaching and learning.
“The delegation visited to follow-up the preparations being made to host the 4th International Conference on Safe Schools Declaration, (SSD).
“The Conference which is to hold in Nigeria from the 25th to 27th October, 2021, is expected to draw participants from all over the world”, he said.
Echono revealed that preparations are in top gear by the Ministry and other stakeholders to ensure that the Conference is successfully hosted in spite of Covid-19 challenges.
In his remarks, the Norwegian Ambassador commended the arrangements being put in place by the country, while also stating that his country is standing by to lend support towards the success of the Conference.
He said “As a co-host, Norway is concerned about the quarantining of foreign participants, (a Covid -19 protocol), security measures being put in place, as well as the venue.
“I commended Nigeria for being the first African country to host the conference, and also enjoin her to inform Norway on areas it needs assistance”.
Also speaking at the event, UNICEF Country Representative, Peter Hawkins said security is a major concern of his organization.
He added that the conference will focus on the best measures and strategies to make teaching and learning environments more conducive and safer.
