Governor Alex Otti of Abia State is taking bold steps to transform the state’s education sector with a comprehensive plan to train 12,000 teachers and restore 180 public schools that have been misused or neglected. This significant initiative was announced by the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia, following a recent State Executive Council meeting.
As part of the ongoing education reforms, the state is funding extensive training for 12,000 teachers during the summer break. This training will prepare them for the updated school system, which will be ready by September 2024. The governor has also set up a special committee to recover public schools that have been misused or neglected.
The committee, led by the Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, and the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Eme Uche-Eme, includes key members such as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwana, and the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije. Their primary task is to reclaim approximately 180 public schools across Abia State, ensuring that these institutions are used exclusively for educational purposes. The government is determined to put an end to the misuse of school lands by individuals or organizations who do not adhere to this mandate.
The Abia State Government is also working with top consultants to review the education system. They are partnering with the Ministry of Education to update the school curricula and make sure it meets global standards.
The Abia State Government is also addressing issues related to private schools. In November 2023, the government sealed 197 private schools for failing to meet minimum standards. The Ministry of Education is actively working to relocate affected students to other schools, ensuring they can continue their education without interruption. Efforts are also underway to reopen Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) CBT centers, with 10 centers already operational and more expected to open soon.
As part of the broader educational reforms, the accreditation process for Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) has begun, accompanied by significant upgrades to facilities and the establishment of new faculties.
