In a landmark effort to improve education standards, Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Plateau State, has inaugurated two classroom blocks in the GraShe and GraNangra communities of Kanam Local Government Area. These new classrooms, the first formal educational structures in the communities, replace makeshift learning environments such as under trees and in neighbors’ compounds.
Chief Usman emphasized the urgent need for quality education to combat crime and secure a brighter future for the next generation. “This initiative aligns with the vision and mission of His Excellency Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfuwang’s administration to work for the people,” he stated, highlighting his personal commitment to enhancing educational opportunities.
The local community contributed by providing the land, while Chief Usman ensured the project’s swift execution, particularly timely with the rainy season approaching. The dedication ceremony saw significant attendance, including the Village Heads of Dar and Kwanin districts, SUBEB Chairman Mr. Sunday Amuna, and the chairmen of Kanam, Pankshin, and Shemdam LGAs. PDP women and youth leaders of Kanam LGA were also present.
GraShe School’s head teacher, Mr. Habib Yusuf Aliyu, expressed gratitude, noting that the new classrooms will significantly enhance learning and serve as a landmark and meeting hall for the community. The GraShe classroom is named Kaka Briskilla Manasseh Mutfuwang, in honor of the late mother of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfuwang, while the GraNangra classroom is named Mama Santali Naomi Usman, in honor of Chief Ephraim Usman’s mother.
The newly constructed buildings were officially handed over to the Plateau State Ministry of Education under the supervision of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). This project underscores the community’s dedication and Chief Usman’s unwavering commitment to fostering educational development in Plateau State.
These new classrooms provide a dedicated, safe, and conducive environment for education, enhancing teaching effectiveness and improving attendance rates. The availability of proper classrooms supports academic growth and fosters a love for learning among pupils.
For the community, these classrooms symbolize progress and a commitment to future generations. They serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that education is a priority. The classrooms also double as community centers, providing venues for meetings, events, and other communal activities, strengthening community bonds.
This initiative is expected to have a ripple effect on the broader community. Educated children grow into informed and skilled adults who can contribute more effectively to local development. By investing in education, Chief Usman is laying the groundwork for sustainable progress, reducing crime rates, and fostering an environment where the next generation can thrive.