“Our Schools Are No Longer Safe” — Katsina Children Demand Urgent Climate Action

Children from the Child Rights Advocacy Club in Mashi Local Government Area have raised alarm over worsening climate and environmental conditions affecting their safety and access to quality education.

The concerns were presented during an advocacy visit to local authorities, including the council chairman and the district head of Mashi, where the children called for immediate intervention.

The initiative, supported by Save the Children International under an Education Cannot Wait-funded project, provided a platform for the young advocates to highlight the challenges faced by students across their communities.

Speaking on behalf of her peers, A’isha Mutaka stressed the urgent need for safe and reliable water sources in schools, particularly during flooding periods, to protect students’ health. The children also called for improved sanitation facilities, including clean toilets and access to hand-washing stations, to curb open defecation and reduce the spread of diseases.

Other representatives outlined additional concerns. Halimatu Yusuf urged authorities to strengthen waste management systems and rehabilitate drainage infrastructure to prevent flooding around school environments. Salamatu Mohammed advocated for tree-planting initiatives and stricter measures against deforestation to create greener and safer school spaces.

Abdulhamid Surajo further emphasised the need for enhanced school security, including fencing and the deployment of guards, while also discouraging grazing within school premises. He identified affected institutions such as Government Pilot Secondary School Majigiri, Afadu Primary School, and Doguru Primary and Secondary Schools.

In response, the Chairman of Mashi Council, Salisu Kallah, represented by his deputy Jamilu Yusuf, assured the children that their concerns would be addressed. He pledged renewed enforcement against illegal tree cutting and promised efforts to improve school environments.

Similarly, the District Head of Mashi, Kabir Aminu, also known as the Iyan Katsina, called for the establishment of environmental clubs in schools and community-driven initiatives to tackle environmental degradation.

The children also used drama and artistic expression during the visit to highlight broader social issues, including gender inequality, reinforcing their call for safer and more inclusive learning environments.