The Katsina State Government, in partnership with UNICEF, has reaffirmed the importance of play in children's education and development during the commemoration of the 2026 International Day of Play in Mashi Local Government Area.
The event, held at Gamzo Primary School, attracted education stakeholders, teachers, parents, and development partners who underscored the role of play in enhancing learning outcomes and nurturing children's overall well-being.
The International Day of Play, observed annually on June 11, seeks to raise awareness about the significance of play in children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Kabir Magaji, described the celebration as a valuable platform for promoting child-friendly and inclusive education.
Represented by the Director of Academic Services, Bishir Ahmad-Mani, Magaji commended teachers in Mashi for their commitment to quality education and praised the local government for hosting the programme.
He also lauded Governor Dikko Radda for prioritising access to quality education across the state, while acknowledging UNICEF, the Mashi Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), and teachers for their support in advancing child-focused initiatives.
Also addressing participants, a representative of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mannir Danjuma, congratulated Mashi LGA and Gamzo Primary School for hosting the event.
Danjuma reiterated the ministry's commitment to programmes that improve learning experiences and support the holistic development of children. He encouraged parents and teachers to create more opportunities for children to engage in play, noting that it enhances understanding, creativity, and emotional health.
The UNICEF focal person at SUBEB, Hauwa Kai-Kai, stressed that play is a fundamental right of every child and a critical component of healthy childhood development.
According to her, play enables children to explore their environment, develop problem-solving abilities, and acquire essential life skills.
She said UNICEF would continue collaborating with the Katsina State Government to integrate play-based learning into early childhood and basic education programmes.
Kai-Kai further urged parents to actively participate in recreational activities with their children, explaining that such interactions strengthen emotional bonds and help protect children from harmful influences.
Earlier, the Education Secretary of Mashi LGEA, Kabir Ali, described play as an indispensable part of children's learning process.
He noted that many educational concepts are easier for children to grasp through practical and playful experiences, urging parents, especially fathers, to dedicate more time to engaging with their children at home.
Ali said increased parental involvement in play activities would contribute significantly to children's academic progress and emotional development.
