The Abia State government has reinforced its commitment to providing free and compulsory basic education in public schools, emphasizing that any individual found soliciting money for pupil enrollment will face strict legal repercussions. This declaration was made by Lady Lydia Onuoha, the Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), during an event aimed at enrolling 29 out-of-school children at the Community Primary School, located in Umuala-Nsulu of Isialangwa North Local Government Area. This initiative was organized by Caritas Nigeria, a non-governmental organization, in cooperation with various state ministries including Education, Women Affairs, and Justice Development and Peace Commission.
During her address, Onuoha, represented by ASUBEB director Mrs. Nnenna Okenwa, conveyed that the administration of Governor Alex Otti is dedicated to transforming public education systems. The government is investing in major renovations to public schools, with a vision to elevate them to a standard comparable to the best private institutions within the state. Onuoha assured parents and guardians that the government is firmly against any form of extortion and aims to improve school infrastructure and security, thereby creating conducive environments for effective teaching and learning through investments such as fencing and essential facilities.
In addition to governmental efforts, Caritas Nigeria has been active in the sector, particularly in assisting vulnerable populations. Mrs. Naomi Thompson, the Technical Officer under the Orphan and Vulnerable Children unit of Caritas Nigeria, highlighted the organization’s collaboration with local schools and community stakeholders through a formal Memorandum of Understanding. This partnership seeks to facilitate the reintegration of out-of-school children into the education system. Thompson specifically mentioned the ongoing commitment of Hopespring Development Initiative, which has pledged to cover first school leaving certificate examination fees for sixth-grade pupils at the Umuola Community Primary School as a gesture of appreciation for community involvement.
Furthermore, the community’s School Management Committee, led by Chairman Mr. Godspower Ahuama, urged the government and affluent individuals to contribute towards addressing prominent challenges faced by underprivileged children, such as dilapidated school infrastructure and a lack of qualified teachers. Ahuama’s call emphasizes the importance of collective efforts in rectifying the shortcomings in public education and ensuring a brighter future for less privileged students.
The event also received support and endorsement from prominent local leaders, including the traditional ruler Eze Patrick Anaba and the school’s headmistress, Mrs. Nwakpa Nwolorondu. They, along with enthusiastic parents, expressed gratitude for the educational initiatives and commitment shown towards the pupils. Their collective joy underscores the significance of community involvement, as they pledged to provide additional learning materials, further fostering an environment where children could thrive academically.
In summary, the Abia State government’s unwavering stance on free and compulsory basic education, augmented by partnerships with NGOs like Caritas Nigeria, illustrates a robust effort to uplift the standards of public schooling. Governor Otti’s administration is anticipated to deliver transformative educational reforms, while the community’s active participation highlights the importance of collaborative engagement in addressing educational disparities. As the state embarks on this journey, the focus remains on inclusive education, ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to receive quality education.
