Education Stakeholders Rally Behind Reform Agenda in Abia State
The Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education convened a high-level stakeholders meeting to bringing together critical players in the education sector to discuss and align on the government’s ongoing education reform agenda.
Held at the Ministry’s Conference Hall in Umuahia, the meeting had in attendance representatives from WAEC, NECO, ANCOPSS, NUT, PTA, AFED, NASU, STEM groups, Faith-Based Associations, Publishers, Local Government Education Secretaries, Supervisory Councillors, and Heads of Parastatals and Departments, among others.
Earlier in his address, the Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Chinedu Ubochi, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to repositioning the education sector for excellence.
He stressed the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, noting that certain key reforms are underway to improve the quality and accessibility of education in the state.
Elder Ubochi dispelled recent rumours claiming that the Ministry had approved ₦54 billion for renovation projects. He clarified that while no such figure was allocated, renovation work is currently ongoing in 221 schools, with several slated for commissioning before schools reopen.
He further revealed plans to supply new classroom furniture after resumption, and confirmed that Governor Alex Chioma Otti has approved the establishment of standard libraries in all 184 wards of the state before the end of the year.
The Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry is currently overseeing educational projects in 83 locations, apart from those being handled by ASUBEB. Contract letters, he said, have already been issued for renovation and construction works in over 70 schools, all part of a broader strategy to achieve tangible results through synergy between the Ministry and its agencies.
Appreciating the support from private schools and alumni associations, Elder Ubochi commended their role in embracing the Governor’s reform agenda.
He lauded Governor Otti’s commitment to education, noting that 20% of the state’s budget has been dedicated to transforming the sector—a clear signal of his passion for building the “New Abia.”
The Commissioner also cautioned publishers against bundling workbooks with textbooks and discouraged schools from prescribing multiple textbooks for a single subject.
He emphasized the need for standardized assessments including the PSLAT for Primary 6, BECE for JSS 3, and a mandatory assessment for SS2 before registering for WAEC.
Highlighting the administration’s free and compulsory education policy from Primary 1 to JSS 3, Elder Ubochi warned against child hawking during school hours. He revealed that Education Marshals have been mandated to apprehend parents or guardians of out-of-school children during school hours.
On recruitment, the Commissioner assured stakeholders that measures are being put in place to address gaps in staffing and manpower across schools in the state.
Also speaking, Special Adviser on Basic and Secondary Education, Sir Kenechukwu Nwosu, condemned the imposition of unauthorized levies on parents and guardians.
He emphasized that all levies, especially those affecting Primary 6 and SS3 students, must receive prior approval from the Ministry, warning that defaulting schools will face strict sanctions.
In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary urged all stakeholders to work in line with government policies to ensure the realization of Governor Otti’s vision for a revitalized education sector in Abia State.
