A former Commissioner of Education in Kano State, Muhammad Sanusi S. Kiru, has criticized the recent relocation of the Government Girls’ Secondary School, Maikwatashi, citing poor planning and execution. In an open letter to Governor Abba Yusuf, Kiru expressed concern over the handling of the project, which involved moving the school to Kaura Goje.

Kiru supports the governor’s vision to reform education in Kano but believes the relocation process was marred by inexperience, lack of planning, and political insensitivity. He argued that demolishing the old school before completing the new one caused unnecessary disruptions and hardships for students, teachers, and the community. Kiru drew from his past experience managing similar projects, citing the successful relocation of Jido Primary School during his tenure, where the new school was fully built and equipped before students were transferred.

The former commissioner also criticized the alleged sale of the old school land for N100 million per plot, describing it as short-sighted and detrimental to public interest. He suggested that the property could have been repurposed for sports facilities, a town hall, or other community projects. Kiru took exception to comments made by the governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters, Sunusi Surajo Kwankwaso, describing his remarks as uninformed and unnecessary.

Kiru urged the state government to take responsibility for the avoidable errors made in the relocation process and ensure that such mistakes are not repeated in the future. He emphasized the importance of proper planning, inclusivity, and sensitivity to the welfare of students and the surrounding community when relocating schools. The former commissioner called on the governor to prioritize the interests of students and the community in future decisions affecting the education sector, stressing the need for a thoughtful and sustainable approach for long-term progress.

The Kano State government has been investing in education reform, and the relocation of the Government Girls’ Secondary School, Maikwatashi, was part of this effort. However, the controversy surrounding the relocation has raised concerns about the government’s approach to education reform. As the state government moves forward with its education initiatives, it will be important to consider the concerns and criticisms raised by stakeholders like Kiru to ensure that the interests of students and the community are prioritized.