*Katsina Government Introduces Education Programme for Repentant Bandits to Foster Peaceful Reintegration* The Katsina State Government has unveiled a new initiative to open literacy classes for repentant bandits as part of a broader strategy to reintegrate them into society and address longstanding insecurity in the state. This move is a component of the state's non-kinetic approach to tackling banditry, focusing on education and rehabilitation rather than solely relying on security operations. The literacy classes aim to provide both Islamic and Western education to former bandits, helping to reshape their behavior and lifestyle. The programme is designed to facilitate the reintegration of these individuals into their communities, supporting ongoing peace efforts following recent agreements in several local government areas where bandits have voluntarily surrendered their arms. The Katsina State Agency for Mass Education will oversee the rollout of the classes, deploying trained facilitators and necessary teaching materials. Classes will be opened in phases, with coordination from local government chairmen, especially in areas where peace agreements have been reached. The curriculum will focus on core subjects in both Islamic and Western education, aiming to provide a balanced foundation for participants. In the past six months, the agency has established 68 new adult education classes in various communities, under the supervision of district heads. A Basic post literacy class has also been launched at the Katsina Correctional Centre to assist inmates in pursuing higher education, with the goal of enabling them to eventually enroll in university degree programmes. Financial provisions have been made in the state’s budget to address challenges faced by these education centres. The Executive Director of the Agency for Mass Education, Bilkisu Muhammad Kakai, has called on National Assembly members from Katsina to allocate a portion of their constituency allowances to support the expansion and effective running of adult education classes, with the aim of eradicating illiteracy in the state. The decision to introduce literacy classes for repentant bandits is part of Katsina State’s wider peace and security strategy. Following years of insecurity and violence attributed to banditry, the government has increasingly turned to non-military solutions, including dialogue and rehabilitation, especially for those who voluntarily lay down their arms. Education is seen as a critical tool for transforming the lives of former combatants, reducing the likelihood of recidivism, and fostering community acceptance. This initiative aligns with other educational reforms in Katsina, such as efforts to improve digital literacy in primary schools and empower youths through various development programmes. The focus on adult literacy and rehabilitation underscores the government’s commitment to a holistic approach to security, development, and social cohesion. By launching literacy classes for repentant bandits, the Katsina State Government is taking a proactive step toward sustainable peace and reintegration. The programme seeks not only to address the immediate needs of former bandits but also to build a more literate, productive, and peaceful society.