Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the critical importance of preserving Nigeria's public education system, warning that "posterity will judge us harshly if we allow the public school system to collapse." He made these remarks on February 19, 2025, during the presentation of tablets donated by MTN Nigeria to students of Government Science Secondary School in Pyakasa, Maitama, Abuja. 

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Shettima highlighted that both he and other leaders are products of public schools, underscoring their responsibility to maintain and improve these institutions. He noted that while they have the means to send their children to private schools, neglecting public education would adversely affect children from less privileged backgrounds, potentially leading to broader societal issues. 

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The Vice President also mentioned President Bola Tinubu's commitment to enhancing public education, referencing the Student Loan Scheme designed to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children. He expressed gratitude to MTN Nigeria for their contribution of 4,600 tablets, pre-installed with educational software, to students across the six geopolitical zones. Shettima urged students to utilize these devices to expand their knowledge and prepare for a technology-driven future. 

This recent statement aligns with Shettima's longstanding advocacy for public education. In 2019, as a senator, he passionately argued against the neglect of public schools, warning that abandoning the children of the poor could lead to future societal challenges. 

The Vice President's consistent stance highlights the ongoing need for investment and reforms in Nigeria's public education sector to ensure equitable access to quality education for all.