In a groundbreaking move to uplift education standards, Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Plateau State, has commissioned two classroom blocks in the GraShe and GraNangra communities of Kanam Local Government Area. These classrooms mark the first formal educational structures the communities have ever had, replacing the makeshift learning spaces previously used by pupils, such as under trees or in neighbors’ compounds.
Driven by a personal commitment to enhance educational opportunities, Chief Usman emphasized the urgent need for quality education to combat crime and ensure 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.
The local community played a crucial role by providing the land, while Chief Usman swiftly executed the project, especially timely given the onset of the rainy season. The dedication ceremony witnessed significant attendance, including the Village Heads of Dar and Kwanin districts, SUBEB Chairman Mr. Sunday Amuna, the chairmen of Kanam, Pankshin, and Shemdam LGAs, and PDP women and youth leaders of Kanam LGA, among others.
The head teacher of GraShe School, Mr. Habib Yusuf Aliyu, expressed his gratitude, noting that the new classrooms will significantly enhance learning and serve as a landmark and meeting hall for the community. In honor of notable figures, the GraShe classroom is named Kaka Briskilla Manasseh Mutfuwang, after the late mother of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfuwang, and the GraNangra classroom is named Mama Santali Naomi Usman, after 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 monumental project is a testament to the community’s dedication and Chief Usman’s unwavering commitment to fostering educational development in Plateau State.
The importance of these new classrooms extends far beyond providing a physical space for learning. For the children, having a dedicated, safe, and conducive environment for education means more consistent and effective teaching. No longer exposed to the elements, students can focus better and have a structured setting that supports academic growth. The availability of proper classrooms is likely to improve attendance rates and overall educational outcomes, fostering a love for learning among the pupils.
For the community, these classrooms symbolize progress and a commitment to future generations. They serve as a beacon of hope and development, demonstrating that education is a priority. The classrooms also double as community centers, providing a venue for meetings, events, and other communal activities. This multifunctional use strengthens community bonds and ensures that the buildings remain integral to the daily life of GraShe and GraNangra.
Moreover, 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.
