In 2024, Verbatim Virtual Solutions was contracted by DAI, implementer of the UK government-funded Partnership for Learning for All in Nigerian Education (PLANE) programme, to document policy reform efforts in Kano State’s basic education sector. Working closely with PLANE and the Kano State Ministry of Budget and Planning, Verbatim supported the development of ‘Stories of Change’ as part of a broader effort to strengthen the education policy and regulatory frameworks.
Our expertise was central to translating these policies from theoretical frameworks into real-world impact. Our role was to document the impact and adaptation of four critical policies in Kano State’s education system: the Girls Education Policy, Teacher Development Policy, Gender, Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Policy, and Non-State School Policy. By crafting clear, compelling narratives, Verbatim showcased how these reforms are being applied and the positive changes they are driving. Our work provided the evidence needed to inform future reforms and to secure continued investment in the educational transformation of Kano.
A Methodology That Delivers Results
Verbatim’s approach to policy reform documentation was rigorous, strategic, and human-centered. Our team designed a structured, field-informed methodology in order to inform a blueprint for replicable, scalable reforms.
We began by conducting stakeholder and beneficiary interviews, engaging over 30 key informants, including government officials, teachers, community leaders, and civil society representatives. These interviews were essential in understanding the real-world application of the policies and the tangible impact they were having on the ground.
By focusing on people’s experiences and needs, we were able to ensure that the stories we told were not just data-driven but reflective of the lived realities of those directly impacted by these reforms. This was complemented by participatory workshops with local actors, ensuring that the narratives produced were inclusive, genuine, and empowering. Through this approach, Verbatim ensured that the documented stories went beyond policy descriptions and reflected concrete outcomes in the delivery of education.
Creating Public Value: Empowering Local Stakeholders
At the core of Verbatim’s work was the commitment to creating public value—transforming policies into actionable knowledge products that could be used to empower local stakeholders and inform future policy decisions. Our aim was to equip Kano’s policymakers, educators, and development partners with the information they needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the reforms, identify areas for improvement, and scale successful initiatives to other parts of Nigeria.
The documentation process also laid the groundwork for long-term sustainability. By highlighting the positive outcomes from the Girls Education Policy, Teacher Development Policy, GESI Policy, and Non-State School Policy, we not only showcased immediate changes but also set the stage for future policy development and broader reforms across Nigeria.
Impact and Transformation
Through our detailed documentation, we showcased how these policies are driving measurable improvements in educational outcomes. For example, the Girls Education Policy has led to increased enrollment and retention rates, particularly for girls from marginalized groups, who historically faced numerous barriers to education. The Teacher Development Policy has ensured better teacher training and professional development, improving the quality of education across the state. The Non-State School Policy has resulted in actual regulation of private and Qur’anic schools, improving educational quality and access.
Safiyanu Lawal Bichi, member of the Girls’ Education Partnership (GEP) and Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE), noted, “Thanks to the policy, we managed to secure billions for girls’ education. This has enabled us to address critical issues such as infrastructure and teacher quality.” This quote underscores the tangible impact of the policies and the value of documenting such changes to ensure their continuity and scalability.
Verbatim’s Enduring Impact
Verbatim’s work has been instrumental in transforming education policy in Kano State, ensuring that these policies are not just pieces of paper but living reforms that are having a real, positive impact on students, teachers, and communities. Through documenting change, engaging stakeholders, and producing actionable knowledge, Verbatim has demonstrated its expertise in policy reform and its commitment to evidence-based development.
