The Kwara State Government has approved a statewide Child Rights Training Programme for students and teachers in both public and private schools, aimed at strengthening child protection systems and raising awareness of children’s rights within the education sector.
The initiative was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Idowu Praise, Administrative Secretary of Sterling Human Resource Development & Logistics Limited, in Ilorin.
According to the statement, the approval was formally communicated in a letter dated April 28, 2026, and signed by Aina Eunice on behalf of the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Lawal Olohungbebe.
The Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development granted the approval following a proposal submitted on April 9, 2026, by the organisation for a structured statewide child rights intervention.
“The approval was formally conveyed in a letter dated 28 April 2026, with reference number DE/SS/GEN/001/VOL. III/10, duly signed by Mrs Aina Bose Eunice on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner,” the statement read.
Sterling Human Resource Development & Logistics Limited said the decision signals government support for integrating child rights education into school systems across the three senatorial districts of the state.
“This milestone follows a detailed proposal submitted on 9 April 2026, seeking authorisation to carry out a structured and impact-driven training initiative designed to strengthen child protection systems within the educational sector,” the statement noted.
The programme will be rolled out in phases across selected schools to ensure effective participation and stakeholder engagement.
“The approved programme will be implemented across selected public and private schools within the three senatorial districts of Kwara State.
“To ensure effectiveness, accessibility, and meaningful participation, the training will be conducted in carefully structured phases, allowing for adequate engagement with stakeholders at all levels,” it said.
The training will focus on child rights principles, safeguarding responsibilities, and practical mechanisms for addressing violations in schools.
“Special emphasis will be placed on equipping teachers with the knowledge and skills required to identify, prevent, and appropriately respond to child rights violations,” the organisation stated.
Students will also receive orientation on discipline, accountability, and responsible behaviour to promote safer and more inclusive learning environments.
“At the end of the training, participants will undergo a structured assessment designed to evaluate their understanding and retention of the knowledge imparted,” the statement added.
Outstanding participants will be rewarded, while others who complete the programme successfully will receive certificates of commendation.
The organisation noted that it would fully sponsor the initiative, describing it as a major step towards strengthening child protection systems in schools across the state. It also commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the education commissioner for supporting the programme.
Nigeria enacted the Child Rights Act in 2003 to protect children’s welfare and promote their development. The law provides safeguards against abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and harmful practices, while guaranteeing access to education, healthcare, and protection.
Several states, including Kwara, have domesticated the law and continue to implement initiatives aimed at improving child protection systems in schools and communities.
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