* Community demands urgent intervention as a historic school collapses despite decades of grassroots efforts.
The people of Sakwak Bajju in Gidan Jatau Ward, Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, are raising the alarm over the complete deterioration of UPE Primary School Sakwak Bajju. Established in 1977, the once-thriving institution now lies in ruins — with collapsing roofs, crumbling walls, and classrooms that no longer offer a safe learning environment.
This school is more than just a structure; it is a symbol of community progress. UPE Sakwak Bajju has served generations of learners, and although not an alumnus himself, Professor Abbas Ahuwan — a respected son of the soil — personally constructed one of the only usable classrooms remaining today. His contribution stands as a rare example of community-led effort in the face of institutional abandonment.
Despite various visits from government officials, neither the Kaduna State Government nor the Zangon Kataf Local Government has acted decisively. The neglect stands in sharp contrast to the state’s public commitment to education reform, making the school’s current condition both ironic and shameful.
Local leaders have not been spared criticism. Hon. Kantiyok, a former councillor and LGA chairman, facilitated the construction of two classrooms during his term, while Chief Mannaseh Joseph Ade, now a legislative aide to Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji, is being urged to use his position to influence meaningful intervention in his home community.
Sakwak Bajju is not a community that waits for handouts. Residents have graded roads, built and maintained boreholes, run a clinic through the Sakwak Women Association, and implemented youth empowerment initiatives. These self-help efforts make the government’s continued neglect even more painful.
“This is no longer just a call — it is a cry,” says Jimmy Naman, a local advocate. “A cry from children forced to learn in ruins, from parents losing hope, and from a community whose patience has run out. We will not stay silent any longer.”
THE COMMUNITY’S DEMANDS ARE SIMPLE AND URGENT:
1. Complete reconstruction of UPE Primary School Sakwak Bajju to modern standards.
2. Immediate deployment of qualified teachers.
3. Restoration of access to quality education for all children.
To the Kaduna State Government, Zangon Kataf Local Government, and all relevant stakeholders: Act now. Act decisively. The children of Sakwak Bajju cannot and must not wait any longer.
Contact:
Jimmy Naman
Community Advocate & Writer
Email: jimmynaman728@gmail.com
