The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in education through deliberate investments and inclusive policies.

Speaking on Thursday at an award ceremony commemorating International Women’s Day, Dr. Balarabe declared that Kaduna is “not just talking education, we are taking action,” citing a range of gender-focused interventions being implemented under the administration of Governor Uba Sani.

The event, organised by the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Kaduna State Wing, in collaboration with the Women in Education Network (NIWEN), was held at the Teachers House in Kabala.

LAGOS EYE NEWS reports that the program brought together female educators from across the state under the theme: “Accelerate Action on Gender Equity for Women and Girls.”

Dr. Balarabe, who was honoured with the NIWEN Award of Excellence, praised the resilience and impact of women in the teaching profession, describing them as “the quiet architects of our future.”

“Your chalk and marker may wipe away on the board, but your impact is indelible,” she told the awardees. “You light the path, you lift potentials, and you lay the groundwork for greatness.”

She commended the NUT and NIWEN for recognising and celebrating female teachers who have shown exceptional dedication to nurturing young minds.

According to her, the event was not just a celebration, but a powerful statement on the vital role women play in shaping the future through education.

Speaking further on the government’s efforts to close the gender gap, Dr. Balarabe pointed to key initiatives including the construction of new schools, the establishment of science colleges for girls, scholarships, and the implementation of the school feeding and Reaching-Out-of-School-Children (ROOSC) programs.

“From infrastructure to access, from recruitment to retention, we are putting in place systems that support girls’ education and female participation at every level,” she said.

Dr. Balarabe also stressed the need for urgent global action to achieve gender equity, warning that without accelerated efforts, it could take over a century to attain true parity.
“We must not allow another generation to grow up waiting. When women win, society soars. When girls rise, nations thrive,” she said.

At the program, outstanding Female teachers across Kaduna State received awards in recognition of their excellence and service to the education sector.