Bauchi govt declares BECE compulsory for public, private students

…as Catholic Diocese visits Ministry, seeks collaboration on school calendar

Bauchi State Government has declared that the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is compulsory for all students in both public and private schools across the state.

The directive is aimed at ensuring that every learner completing basic education obtains the required certification to support their future academic pursuits.

The State Ministry of Education underscores that the BECE serves as a vital qualification for admission into senior secondary schools and other higher learning institutions.

Ensuring students obtain this certificate will strengthen their academic foundation and prepare them for the next stage of their educational journey.

This policy is part of the Bauchi State Government’s broader efforts-under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed-to improve the quality of education and empower young people with the credentials and skills they need for long-term academic and professional success.

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Parents, guardians, and school administrators are therefore urged to ensure that all eligible students are duly registered and participate in the examination as contained in a statement by Jalaludeen Usman, Information and Public Relations Officer, Bauchi State Ministry of Education.

In the same vein, the Catholic Diocese of Bauchi, led by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kafas, on Monday visited the Bauchi State Ministry of Education to discuss matters relating to the academic calendar and the role of religious bodies in education planning.

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kafas expressed satisfaction with the warm reception accorded them by the Ministry saying that it was a demonstration of the friendly posture of the management of the Ministry.

He used the occasion to commend the government for recognising the role of the Catholic Church in education delivery in the state over the years through granting of approval for all its educational institutions.

The Clergyman assured that the Catholic Church will continue to support education sector in ensuring its growth and development through quality and standardised curriculum.

Speaking during the visit, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Mohammed Rimin Zayam, welcomed the delegation and described the Diocese as a key stakeholder in the education sector.

The Commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ali Babayo, noted that the formulation of the school calendar is a collective responsibility, adding that the Ministry does not unilaterally decide on such matters without wide consultation.

“We don’t just sit down in the Ministry and draft the academic calendar. It’s a process that involves all relevant stakeholders, including religious bodies.”

“I believe the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is already represented in the process, but we will also engage the Catholic Diocese in our next calendar review meeting,” the Commissioner said.

He urged religious bodies and other stakeholders to always feel free to approach the Ministry with their concerns, stressing that the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed has provided a conducive environment for all residents, regardless of tribe or religion.

“We want education for all. Whatever happens, come to us, let’s sit down and discuss,” he said as contained in a statement by Jalaludeen Usman Information and Public Relations Officer.

Recall that there was a misunderstanding between the Ministry and faith-based organisations that have schools when schools were closed down during the last Ramadan fasting period.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE