The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has unveiled a new incentive-driven funding model aimed at reducing Nigeria’s alarming number of out-of-school children, currently estimated at 18.3 million.

The Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission, Dr Aisha Garba, disclosed that the initiative, known as HOPE-EDU, is structured around a results-based financing system that rewards states for measurable progress in expanding access to basic education.

Speaking at a two-day sensitisation workshop in Kano, Garba explained that the programme is funded by the World Bank in partnership with the Global Partnership for Education, with a total financing package of $552.18 million.

She noted that under the scheme, states would only receive financial incentives after achieving clearly defined targets, particularly in reducing the number of out-of-school children.

According to her, “This programme adopts the Programme-for-Results model, meaning funding is tied strictly to outcomes. States will implement through their SUBEBs, and once verified results are recorded, such as increased enrolment figures, they will be rewarded accordingly.”

Garba added that the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with a focus on improving access, upgrading infrastructure, and strengthening teacher capacity nationwide.

She emphasised that the State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) would serve as the primary drivers of implementation, accessing grants and technical support upon meeting performance benchmarks.

Also speaking, Kano State Commissioner for Education, Dr Ali Haruna Makoda, commended the Federal Government for the initiative, describing it as timely and strategic.

Makoda stated that the state government is committed to leveraging the programme to enhance teaching and learning outcomes in public schools, noting ongoing efforts including increased funding for education, recruitment of teachers, and the declaration of a state of emergency in the sector.

The HOPE-EDU initiative is expected to significantly boost enrolment and improve the quality of basic education across participating states, particularly in regions with high numbers of out-of-school children.