Katsina Government Justifies School Closures in Ramadan

Ramadan School Closures: Katsina Government’s Defense

The Katsina State Government has addressed concerns regarding the closure of schools during the holy month of Ramadan, stating that the decision aims to balance religious observance with educational continuity. Recognizing the intense heat prevalent in northern Nigeria and the unique challenges faced by students and teachers during Ramadan, the government has implemented measures to minimize academic disruption. These include extra lessons for Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) candidates in public, private, and community schools, starting from March 3, 2025. The government emphasizes its commitment to creating an educational environment that respects religious diversity while maintaining high academic standards.

However, this initiative has faced criticism from various quarters. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has raised concerns that the extended school closures violate students’ constitutional rights and could hinder educational progress. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh highlighted that while respecting religious diversity is important, the five-week shutdown disproportionately affects non-Muslim students and may not align with practices in other predominantly Muslim countries.

Similarly, the Impacthive Centre for Accountability, Democracy, and Rights (ICADAR) condemned the school closures, arguing that the move disrupts education and risks exacerbating existing learning challenges in the region. ICADAR questioned the necessity of closing schools for Ramadan, pointing out that fasting is obligatory only for those who have reached puberty, and that older students often manage to balance studies with religious observance.

In response to these criticisms, the Katsina State Government has urged educational institutions to implement the guidelines with sensitivity, ensuring that students of all faiths feel supported and valued. The government remains committed to balancing the observance of religious practices with the need to maintain educational standards and uphold students’ rights.