Abia Cracks Down on Unlawful Charges in Public Schools

The Abia State Government has clarified that only students in Senior Secondary School are required to pay the officially approved fee of ₦3,000. It has issued a stern warning to Principals and Head Teachers in public schools to cease the collection of unauthorized fees or levies from pupils in Primary and Junior Secondary classes, emphasizing that violators will face serious disciplinary action.

During a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia following the State Executive Council meeting, Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, reiterated that such practices undermine the government’s policy of free and compulsory education for public primary and junior secondary schools. He noted that the government has made adequate budgetary provisions for school operations, and as such, any illegal fee collection is unjustified.

“This administration will not condone fraudulent acts. Officials found culpable will face legal consequences and risk dismissal from service,” Kanu stated. He also shared updates on the recent teacher recruitment exercise, revealing that the final phase—comprising certificate verification and oral interviews—was held from March 31 to April 4.

From the applicants, around 7,000 candidates, including 180 persons with disabilities, were shortlisted for scoring 45% and above. Candidates who scored between 40% and 44% were placed on a reserve list to fill in for any disqualifications or absentees.

The Commissioner noted that the recruitment aims to establish a robust database of qualified teachers in response to increased student enrollment brought about by the free education policy.

He further announced a second recruitment round for applicants who missed the initial phase.In partnership with the Education Reformation and Innovation Team, the state is also organizing training for 2,200 teachers across three centres—Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia. The training, scheduled from April 10 to 19, is designed to elevate teaching quality and boost student academic outcomes.

Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Goodluck Ubochi, added that the recruitment drive would help bridge the teacher gap, particularly in high-demand areas such as technical and vocational education.

Source : https://thesourceng.com/