Narjis’ Story
How Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) is transforming learning in Zamfara State.
Gusau, Zamfara State – Eight-year-old Narjis Rabiu, a Primary 5 pupil at Gidan Dawa Model Primary School in Bungudu Local Government Area, is one of the many students benefiting from the Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) initiative.
After the baseline assessment (placement assessment) was conducted, Narjis was place in the word and paragraph level. She has a remarkable improvement in her English phonics and spellings which has set her apart from many of her peers.
“These classes have increased my love for school,” Narjis said with a smile. “Now, I can read and write better. After school, I practice with my parents and siblings at home. It makes me excited to return to school the next day because our classes are now full of fun.”
During a visit to her classroom, Narjis and her fellow pupils could be seen sitting cross-legged on mats arranged in rounded shapes, fully engaged in their learning activities. Their attention was fixed on a demonstrative figure, a drawing displayed on a cardboard, as they collaboratively identified the elements on it. One by one, the pupils shared their observations, wrote them down on sheets of paper, and later posted their findings on the blackboard.
Narjis confidently led the group in reciting each alphabetic sound, word, and sentence, as her classmates eagerly repeated after her. Singing—a key teaching methodology in the TaRL program—added a joyful rhythm to the learning process, making it even more enjoyable for the children.
Implemented by the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) with support from UNICEF, the TaRL approach has significantly improved foundational literacy and numeracy skills across Zamfara State. With its innovative approach, TaRL tailor's lessons to the specific learning levels of each student, ensuring no child is left behind.
Narjis’ story is one among many that highlights the program’s impact. Over 8000 children are currently benefiting from the Basic and Advanced classes across 50 schools implementing the TaRL approach in Zamfara State.
For pupils like Narjis, the TaRL program is not just about learning—it’s about rediscovering the joy of education. By fostering confidence, engagement, and foundational skills, TaRL is helping children build a brighter future, one lesson at a time.
