The government of Kuwait has pledged to support the education of 200,000 out-of-school children in Kaduna State, Nigeria, under its ambitious “Reaching Out-of-School Children” (ROOSC) project. This initiative, designed to promote equitable access to quality education, will particularly focus on children with disabilities, girls, and adolescents in the state.
Mr. Salim Khalifa Almuzayen, the Ambassador of Kuwait to Nigeria, made this announcement on Monday during the 64th National Day and 34th Liberation Day celebrations of the State of Kuwait in Abuja. He highlighted the collaboration between the Kuwaiti government, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and UNICEF, which is funding this landmark educational project in Kaduna.
The ROOSC project aims to address the educational challenges faced by marginalized children, providing them with the opportunity to access quality primary education. The project’s impact is expected to be transformative, not only for the children it serves but also for the broader community. With over 200,000 children projected to benefit, the project aligns with Kuwait’s long-standing commitment to international development and humanitarian efforts.
Ambassador Almuzayen also reflected on the historical ties between Kuwait and Nigeria, emphasizing the bilateral relations that date back to the 1960s. He noted the establishment of the Al-Sabah school in Kaduna, a significant marker of the two nations’ friendship. He further commended Kuwait’s foreign policy, which is rooted in moderation and collaboration with global partners to achieve its Vision 2035, aspiring to position Kuwait as a leading regional hub in finance, trade, and culture.
Speaking at the event, Adeolu Okenla, Senior Councillor of the Middle East and Gulf Division in Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, praised the long-standing diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Kuwait, which have been flourishing since 1971. He acknowledged Kuwait’s contributions to regional peace, particularly within the Gulf Cooperation Council, and commended its free education policy, which has achieved an impressive adult literacy rate of 96.46%.
The National Day and Liberation Day celebrations marked a moment of pride for Kuwait, reflecting on its independence from the British protectorate in 1961 and its liberation from Iraqi occupation in 1991. Okenla highlighted Kuwait’s remarkable progress, which has transformed it into a wealthy nation with a high standard of living. He also emphasized how these celebrations are a symbol of the nation’s resilience and enduring commitment to progress.
This partnership between Kuwait and Nigeria further solidifies the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations, underscoring their shared commitment to peace, development, and prosperity. The ROOSC project is a testament to the power of international collaboration in addressing critical issues in education, and it offers a brighter future for thousands of Nigerian children.
