A group, People Organic Movement (POM) has strongly criticised the decision by the governor of Bauchi State, Honorable Governor Bala Muhammad, to close schools during the holy month of Ramadan.
The body warns that the five-week closure will significantly disrupt the academic calendar, potentially impacting students’ learning outcomes and preparedness for exams.
POM further added that the long break may cause students to forget previously learned material, leading to a decline in academic performance and risks worsening the already dire learning conditions in these state.
In a statement signed by POM’s Bauchi State Coordinator, Samako Yilkat and made available to Veracity Desk (veracitydesk.com) on Monday March 3, 2025, the group appealed to the Governor to reconsider the decision and explore alternative arrangements, such as flexible scheduling or excusing Muslim students during fasting periods, to accommodate their needs while minimizing disruptions to the academic calendar.
Below is the statement in full:
3rd March, 2025
The Executive Governor
Bauchi State Government
Bauchi State, Nigeria
Dear Honorable Governor Bala Muhammad,
We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the recent decision to close state public and private schools for five weeks due to Ramadan fasting. While we understand the importance of respecting the religious obligations of Muslim students, we strongly believe that this prolonged closure will have severe negative consequences on the education and well-being of all students, regardless of their faith.
The decision may be perceived as favoring one faith over others, potentially creating divisions and inequalities among students. Furthermore, it may be interpreted as an effort to impose Islamic practices on students of other faiths, undermining the principles of religious freedom and inclusivity.
A five-week closure will significantly disrupt the academic calendar, potentially impacting students’ learning outcomes and preparedness for exams. This break may cause students to forget previously learned material, leading to a decline in academic performance.
In addition, non-Muslim students may feel marginalized or excluded due to the prolonged closure, potentially affecting their sense of belonging and social cohesion. The closure may also have economic implications, particularly for families who rely on schools for childcare or other support services.
We urge you to reconsider the decision and explore alternative arrangements, such as flexible scheduling or excusing Muslim students during fasting periods, to accommodate their needs while minimizing disruptions to the academic calendar.
We would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this matter further and explore solutions that prioritize the educational needs and well-being of all students.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Samako Yilkat
Bauchi State Coordinator, People Organic Movement (POM)
