A former Deputy Governor of Kano State, Dr. Nasir Yusuf Gawuna, has called on private school owners to adopt an inclusive education system in their schools.
He made the call while speaking at the 8th Speech and Prize Giving Day of Usman International School, held on Sunday, October 3, 2025, in Kano.
Dr. Gawuna, who served as the chairman of the occasion, expressed admiration for the school’s inclusive policy, especially its support for students with special needs, describing it as one of the most commendable aspects of the institution.
“I observed several remarkable things today. First is the scholarship program, which is a great philanthropic gesture and shows a deep concern for the future of our younger generation. Second is the discipline and moral values exhibited by both teachers and students.
Third is the proprietor’s strong commitment to supporting the education of children with special needs, enabling them to acquire knowledge, skills, and a sense of belonging,” he said.
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The Chairman, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria further praised the students with disabilities for showcasing their talents, citing an example of a student who weaves using their toes.
“It was truly amazing. I urge parents of children with special needs to enroll them in schools so they too can be educated and empowered.”
Dr. Gawuna also commended the proprietor of the school for his dedication to inclusive education and efforts to support physically challenged students.
In his remarks, the proprietor of Usman International School and former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji, explained his motivation for establishing the school.
“I decided to establish this school because, during my time as Commissioner of Education in 1999, I recognized the need for wealthy individuals to contribute to the education sector, especially in light of the growing population in northern Nigeria,” he said.
He added that over the past sixteen years, the school has consistently included students with special needs, with the aim of encouraging them and supporting their families.
“I can confidently say that Usman International is perhaps the only school of its kind in Kano and maybe in the entire northern region that fully integrates students with special needs and those without, allowing them to interact, learn, and support one another,” he stated.
According to him, nearly one hundred students are on scholarship, with thirty receiving a 50% tuition discount. “Some parents have talented children but cannot afford their education. This is my way of supporting them,” he added.
“We aim to make this school the best in academic excellence, character, religious values, and citizenship,” he emphasized.
In an interview, Malama Hajara Sunusi Hamisu, Head of the Special Needs Unit at the school, explained:
“We first assess each child to identify their abilities. We combine both academic and vocational training. Our students include those who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, and others with different challenges—but we thank God for their steady progress.”
She also noted that the school provides nannies to assist with the daily care of the students.
The school principal, Abdurrahman Ballo Ibrahim, announced that forty students graduated this year. Haft Magaji emerged as the overall best student in Mathematics, Physics, Biology, and Civic Education, while Maryam Sani received awards for excellence in English, Biology, Chemistry, and Fisheries.
“I thank the management, staff, and parents for their unwavering support in making the school a success,” he said.
