In Adamawa State, an initiative has emerged to provide education to out-of-school children, thanks to the support of UNICEF and the Adamawa State Government. This partnership focuses on improving both formal and non-formal education, giving a second chance to children who had lost access to learning due to various challenges.

The core of this initiative lies in the Accelerated Basic Education Centres (ABEC), which have established 62 non-formal learning centers in the Gombi Local Government Area. These centers offer a secure and welcoming environment for out-of-school children, including young married and divorced girls, enabling them to attend classes and continue their education. According to Mrs. Shelena Daniel, a facilitator at Gombi, the learning process is designed to be engaging and fun, which helps children grasp concepts more easily and build their confidence.

Alhaji Isa Mohammed, a member of the School-Based Management Committee (SBMC) in Gombi, credits the success of the initiative to community sensitization efforts that have raised awareness about the importance of education. He praised UNICEF for its role in reducing crime through education, noting that their efforts have instilled a sense of hope and renewal in the community. A 9-month program has been designed to fast-track the learning of students who missed early schooling, preparing them for adult education. This program bridges the gaps in formal and non-formal education, allowing learners to progress similarly to their peers in regular schools.

Mr. Abdulrahman Ibrahim, UNICEF Education Specialist, highlighted that this initiative has been transformative for many children who had previously lost access to education. The Adamawa State Government's commitment to improving education is demonstrated through its partnership with UNICEF and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), which has led to the development of a plan to enhance early childhood, formal, and non-formal education in the state.

Dr. Garba Umar Pella, the Adamawa State Commissioner for Education, expressed the government’s gratitude for UNICEF’s support, noting its instrumental role in promoting child education and addressing social issues such as insecurity and drug abuse. As the initiative continues to yield positive outcomes, there is hope for a brighter future for the state’s children. The government is working with UNICEF to ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background.

The story of Adamawa’s out-of-school children reflects resilience and determination. Despite the challenges they face, they are eager to learn and build a better future. The ongoing partnership between the Adamawa State Government and UNICEF is expected to have a lasting impact on the state’s education sector, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential through access to quality education.