Abia State Government To Enforce Free Compulsory Education, Vows to Punish Extortion in Schools
The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to providing free and compulsory basic education in all public schools, warning that any individual caught extorting money from students during enrollment will face the full force of the law.
This was made known by Lady Lydia Onuoha, Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), during a handover ceremony at the Community Primary School, Umuala-Nsulu, in Isialangwa North Local Government Area. The event marked the enrollment of 29 Out-of-School children and the completion of the classroom block flooring, a project that highlights the government’s dedication to improving public education infrastructure.
The ceremony, which also featured the flag-off of an Education Trust Fund to support pupils, was organized by 'Caritas Nigeria' in partnership with the Abia State Ministries of Education and Women Affairs, as well as ASUBEB and the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC).
Lady Onuoha, represented by ASUBEB Director Mrs. Nnenna Okenwa, emphasized the administration's firm stance on ensuring access to quality education for all children. She revealed that the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti has plans to elevate public schools to match and possibly exceed the standards of private schools in the state.
“The Governor Alex Chioma Otti is consolidating the fact that basic education must be free and compulsory. If anybody is asking any child to bring something for you to be in school, the government will frown at it,” Onuoha stated.
She further outlined the administration's plans to overhaul the public school system, hinting at major infrastructure upgrades that include perimeter fencing, improved structures, and other essential facilities. “Very soon, when you see the public schools in Abia State, you may not recognize them again, including your own school," she added, signaling a transformative future for public education in the state.
In her speech, Mrs. Naomi Thompson, Technical Officer under the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) unit of Caritas Nigeria, underscored the NGO's commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment. Caritas Nigeria, which has operated for 14 years, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with key state ministries and community stakeholders to ensure the re-enrollment of out-of-school children.
“Our vision as an implementing organization in Abia state is to create a world where everyone enjoys the fullness of life,” Thompson said. She further announced that HopeSpring Development Initiative, in partnership with JDPC and Caritas Nigeria, will cover the fees for the First School Leaving Certificate examination for Umuala Community Primary School. This initiative is intended to reward the school's growth and the community's dedication to education.
The School Management Committee Chairman, Mr. Godspower Ahuama, used the opportunity to call on the government and affluent individuals to support underprivileged children and address the challenges plaguing public schools, such as poor infrastructure and a shortage of teachers.
Similarly, the Traditional Ruler of the community, Eze Patrick Anaba, along with the school's headmistress, Mrs. Nwakpa Nwolorondu, and parents expressed their joy and pledged continued support for the pupils. They promised to provide additional learning materials to ensure the children have the resources they need to succeed.
This event marks a significant step in Abia State’s efforts to promote free and compulsory education while fostering partnerships between the government, NGOs, and local communities to support the educational needs of children.
