The Head of the Department of Adult Education and Community Development at Bayero University Kano,Dr Auwalu Halilu, has secured a prestigious research grant to conduct a comprehensive assessment on school re-entry for married and pregnant girls in Northern Nigeria.
Dr. Halilu, who also serves as Co-Chair of K-SAFE, received the grant under the Onelife Initiative with funding support from the Malala Fund after a highly competitive selection process involving 705 applications across five focal states.
His proposal emerged among the shortlisted entries for Kano State, underscoring the relevance, quality, and policy significance of the research aimed at addressing barriers to girls’ education in the region.
The study will examine the realities, challenges, opportunities, and policy pathways surrounding the re-entry of married and pregnant girls into formal and non-formal education systems across Northern Nigeria.
The research is expected to generate evidence-based recommendations that will assist governments, development partners, and education stakeholders in strengthening second-chance education and expanding inclusive learning opportunities for girls affected by early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and school interruption.
Speaking on the award, Dr. Halilu described the grant as both a recognition of his academic efforts and a responsibility to contribute meaningful research capable of influencing policies and interventions that improve the future of vulnerable girls.
He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting educational inclusion through research, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
According to him, ensuring access to education for disadvantaged girls remains critical to addressing broader social and developmental challenges in Northern Nigeria.
The achievement further highlights Bayero University Kano’s growing reputation in impactful research, community engagement, and evidence-driven solutions to pressing social and educational issues in Nigeria.