Written By Khadijah Aliyu; Edited By Godwin Duru
The Kano State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has commemorated World Play Day with a colourful and engaging event aimed at promoting play-based learning in schools.
The event was held at Kuka Bulukiya Primary School and brought together education stakeholders, government officials, teachers, parents, and pupils to underscore the importance of play in children’s learning and development.
Speaking during the celebration, UNICEF Education Programme Officer, Mustafa Shehu, explained that June 11 is observed annually as World Play Day to recognize the critical role of play in the lives and education of children.
He said the observance seeks to raise awareness among educators, parents, and policymakers about the importance of play in supporting children’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development.
According to him, UNICEF hopes the annual celebration will encourage teachers to adopt more child-centred and interactive teaching approaches that make learning both enjoyable and effective.
Mustafa further expressed optimism that the initiative would inspire educators to create supportive learning environments where pupils can achieve their full academic potential without unnecessary barriers.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Dala Local Government Area, Surajo Ibrahim Imam, described the programme as timely and impactful, emphasizing that play remains a vital tool for enhancing children’s educational experiences and overall development.
According to him, children learn and retain lessons more effectively when classroom instruction is combined with games and recreational activities.
He noted that integrating play into teaching helps improve pupils’ comprehension, creativity, critical-thinking skills, and social interaction.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Education Secretary of Dala Local Government Area, the Director of the Education Department representing the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Education, and the Chairman of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) of Kuka Bulukiya Primary School.
The celebration featured a range of interactive and recreational activities designed to demonstrate how play can be effectively integrated into teaching and learning, reinforcing the message that every child deserves a joyful, inclusive, and stimulating educational experience.
