Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has launched the construction of two mega schools in Hawul Local Government Area to expand access to quality education in southern Borno.
The intervention targets infrastructure gaps and teacher shortages that have affected learning in rural communities.
One of the projects is a 48-classroom Higher Islamic College located in Shafa.
The college will operate under the curriculum of the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies to combine formal education with Islamic studies.
Zulum on Wednesday said the initiative fulfills his campaign promise to blend religious education with literacy, numeracy, digital skills, and vocational training.
“This model will modernize Islamic education and prepare learners for social and economic challenges,” Zulum said.
The second project is a mega school in Marama town aimed at improving access to modern educational facilities in the area.
While laying the foundation, the governor announced plans to recruit additional teachers to address manpower shortages.
“We will construct a befitting two-storey building with 36 classrooms and other facilities to support learning in Marama,” Zulum said.
“Due to the shortage of teachers, we will recruit competent teachers who are indigenes of Marama to serve in this school,” he added.
The foundation-laying ceremony was conducted with support from Lawan Abba Wakilbe, commissioner for education, science, technology and innovation.
During the visit, the governor also inspected the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Azare, Hawul Local Government Area.
The facility was rehabilitated and donated by the state government to fast-track its take-off.
Zulum said the hospital would strengthen specialized healthcare services and reduce referrals outside the state.
The governor also commissioned projects executed by Hawul Local Government, including a shopping complex and market stalls.
