Students in Kano learn under trees as schools crumble

A School Under the Trees: The Struggles of Students in Karaye

In the Turawa community of Karaye Local Government Area, Kano State, a primary school is facing severe challenges that are impacting the education of over 1,000 pupils. Due to the collapse of most of its classroom blocks, students are being forced to learn in open spaces under trees, creating an environment that is far from ideal for academic growth.

The situation has become dire, with only a few structures remaining functional. These are not sufficient to accommodate the large number of students, leading to overcrowded conditions and overwhelming teachers. When it rains, the problem worsens, as schools are often forced to close, disrupting the learning schedule and affecting the overall academic calendar.

Of the six classroom blocks in the school, three have completely collapsed and are no longer usable. The remaining three are in poor condition, with two lacking roofs entirely. This exposes students to harsh weather conditions, including scorching sunlight and heavy rainfall. Even the single functional block lacks a proper floor, forcing children to sit directly on sand during lessons, which is neither hygienic nor conducive to learning.

A teacher who chose to remain anonymous shared their frustration, stating:

“When it’s sunny, we try to manage under the trees, but when it rains, the only option we have is to close school and ask the children to go home. The classrooms are not safe. Some have completely collapsed, and others are on the verge of falling.”

Parents in the community have also voiced their concerns about the impact of these conditions on their children's education. One parent expressed worry about how their children can compete with those in urban areas when they are learning under trees or sitting on sand.

Alhaji Muhammadu Shaibu, a father of four, emphasized the need for government intervention. “The government must come and see this with their own eyes. We are being left behind,” he said.

Hajia Ahisa Garko added, “Many of these children walk long distances to school every day, only to be sent back home when it rains. How can they learn like this?”

The head of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Malam Sulaiman Idris, revealed that the school had written several letters to the local government and the Kano State Ministry of Education but received no response. “We’ve cried out for help, but no one is listening. All we want is for our children to learn in safe classrooms like every other child in Nigeria,” he said.

Efforts to obtain a response from the state government have been unsuccessful. However, a source indicated that the current administration is working to address educational challenges that were inherited from previous governments.

This situation highlights the urgent need for investment in infrastructure and support for schools in rural areas. Without proper facilities, students are at a disadvantage, and the quality of education suffers. It is time for the government and other stakeholders to take action and ensure that all children have access to safe and conducive learning environments.