The Executive Chairman of Borno State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Shettima Bukarkullima, said yesterday that over 512 schools have been destroyed and 350 teachers killed by Boko Haram over the years.

He said when the figure is translated to classrooms; the terrorist group has destroyed over 1,000 classrooms with instructional materials for schools.

He could not, however, say how many children were killed or are missing because some areas are still under Boko Haram.

Speaking during the opening of the 14th quarterly meeting of Universal Basic Education (UBEC) with executive chairmen of state UBEBs in Abuja, Bukarkullima said although schools are functioning in some areas and within the Internally Displaced Camps (IDPs), the state is aggressively rebuilding schools.

His words: “Boko Haram insurgency has dealt a blow on basic education delivery in Borno. The terrorists have destroyed 512 schools. When you translate this to classrooms, it is over 1,000, in addition to 350 teachers killed.

“In some peaceful areas, particularly Maidugri, Jere, Shani, Hawul, Bayo, Kwayo Kusar, schools are still in session. Within Maidugri and IDPs’ camps, schools are also functioning. The state government is aggressively pursuing the construction of schools. Apart from the state government, we are yet to get support from anywhere, particularly from the previous government. We are worse than a conquered territory.

“We got all the books that are being distributed but you know that most of the areas were vandalised by insurgents.”

UBEC Executive Secretary, Dikko Suleiman, said the board was mindful of the draw-back basic education had suffered as a result of the insurgency and other issues, but UBEC would cater for their needs with a new education strategy. (Daily Sun)

•Photo shows one of the schools destroyed by Boko Haram in North-East Nigeria.