The Katsina State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education announced on Tuesday that it is planning to conduct competency tests for all principals and vice principals of secondary schools across the state.
According to the Commissioner for the Ministry, Hon. Zainab Musawa, the results of these tests will be used to guide reappointments, ensuring a merit-based system for school leadership, which will promote dedicated and effective management in the schools.
During a press briefing at her office, Musawa also addressed recent media reports that, in her view, unfairly portrayed the state’s performance in the 2024 National Examinations Council (NECO) results.
“While Katsina State’s performance in the 2024 NECO exams does show areas for improvement, the report also highlights several key achievements,” the Commissioner noted.
Musawa criticized the media for focusing solely on percentage performance while overlooking other indicators that demonstrate progress in the state’s education sector.
She further revealed plans to reintroduce mandatory preparatory classes for all final-year students, whether in boarding or day schools, with targeted coaching in Mathematics and English.
“Importantly, Katsina State ranked sixth nationally in the number of students who passed the exam with five credits, including Mathematics and English,” Musawa added.
A total of 29,633 students from Katsina met this crucial benchmark, surpassing the performance of at least 30 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Some states had fewer than 10,000 students meeting the same standard.
This represents a significant increase from the 25,152 students who achieved this benchmark in 2023, reflecting approximately 17.8% growth.
Musawa emphasized that this initiative aims to better prepare students for their final exams and further improve their academic performance.
The Ministry remains committed to delivering quality education to all students and securing a bright future for Katsina State.