By Muawiya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has engaged head teachers and pupils of Qur’anic schools in a new environmental initiative aimed at planting and nurturing trees along newly constructed roads within the state.
The initiative was disclosed by the Special Adviser on Climate Change and Supervising Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment, Professor Mohammed Al-Amin, while addressing traditional rulers and heads of Qur’anic schools at the palace of the Magajin Garin Katsina.
Professor Al-Amin explained that the tree-planting exercise is designed to replace trees removed during road construction and expansion projects, particularly within Katsina metropolis.
He emphasized that the programme is part of broader efforts to promote environmental sustainability and improve urban greenery.
According to him, pupils of Qur’anic schools will be responsible for planting and nurturing the trees for a period of one year, while their head teachers will supervise and monitor their activities to ensure proper care of the seedlings.
He further stated that petty traders operating along the roads will also be encouraged to support the initiative by helping to protect the seedlings and ensuring they grow to maturity.
The government, he added, will provide all necessary materials for watering and maintaining the trees, with the equipment expected to be handed over to the pupils after they complete their assigned responsibilities.
In addition, a monthly allowance will be provided to participating head teachers as part of the programme’s support structure.
Professor Al-Amin described the initiative as a practical approach to creating engagement opportunities for Qur’anic school pupils, with the added aim of reducing street begging and promoting environmental awareness among young people.
He called on heads of Qur’anic schools to cooperate fully with the government to ensure the success of the programme.
In response, the representative of the Magajin Garin Katsina, Aminu Abdulmumini Kabir, through Wakilin Kudu, Alhaji Abdu, pledged the support of the traditional institution and assured that efforts would be made to ensure the success of the initiative.
He also urged head teachers to mobilize their students and ensure discipline and commitment in carrying out the assignment.
