Application of Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks in Basic Education Programme Management in Kano State

This study investigates the application of monitoring and evaluation frameworks in managing basic education programmes in Kano State, North West Nigeria. Effective monitoring and evaluation is essential for tracking programme fidelity, identifying implementation gaps, and generating evidence for adaptive management decisions in education. The Universal Basic Education programme and other federal education initiatives require systematic M and E at state and local government levels, yet evidence suggests significant weaknesses in how these frameworks are applied in Kano State. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with data from 60 Local Government Education Authority officers, 40 UBEC programme officers, and 50 head teachers across Kano metropolis and three rural local government areas. M and E framework quality was assessed using tool comprehensiveness, data collection frequency, reporting quality, and feedback loop functionality. Programme outcome measures include enrolment rates, teacher deployment ratios, and textbook availability. Regression and descriptive analyses were applied. Results indicate that M and E activities are largely compliance-oriented rather than adaptive, with findings rarely feeding back into programme adjustment decisions. Data quality issues and inadequate M and E staffing were identified as primary weaknesses. The study concludes that M and E frameworks in Kano State basic education are not yet fulfilling their adaptive management potential. It recommends investment in M and E capacity building for LGEA staff and a mandatory quarterly results review process linking M and E findings to programme budget adjustments.

Keywords: monitoring and evaluation, basic education, programme management, Kano State, UBEC.