UTAGBA-UNO/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has cautioned against unauthorized fee collections, molestation of teachers by parents, and the unapproved use of school premises, describing these actions as detrimental to the MORE Agenda of the current administration.
The Commissioner for Primary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, issued the warning during a meeting held at Utagba-Ogbe Grammar School, Kwale, with Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs), Local Education Secretaries (ES), and headteachers from Ukwuani, Isoko-North, Ndokwa-East, and Ndokwa-West local government areas.
Dr. Ashibogwu emphasized that the success of the MORE Agenda requires collective efforts from the government and all stakeholders. He urged headteachers, as key drivers of education, to align with the policies of the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to enhance the state’s educational system.
The commissioner highlighted that unauthorized activities, including fee collections and misuse of school premises without proper payments to government accounts, undermine the administration’s commitment to improving education. He also warned against enrolling external pupils for the forthcoming Primary School Cognitive Examination, stressing the need to eliminate unregistered schools.
To prevent accidents involving dilapidated structures, Dr. Ashibogwu urged headteachers to report unsafe buildings to the relevant authorities for rehabilitation or demolition. He also advised them to collaborate with community leaders and local vigilante groups to safeguard government properties.
Addressing the shortage of teachers, the commissioner assured that recruitment would be considered as funds become available. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to providing teaching aids to improve learning outcomes.
On health-related matters, Dr. Ashibogwu encouraged headteachers to support immunization programs approved by the appropriate authorities as part of inter-agency collaboration.
In response, headteachers expressed gratitude to the state government for approving and implementing the new minimum wage. While pledging to uphold their responsibilities, they appealed for increased support in areas such as infrastructure development, teacher recruitment, provision of security guards, and teaching materials. They also urged the government to clamp down on unregistered schools and address their stagnation at level 14, which differs from their counterparts in secondary schools.
The meeting was attended by directors from the Ministry of Education, including the Director of Schools and the Director of Examinations and Standards, alongside over 150 headteachers, CIEs, and ES from the four local government areas.
In her vote of thanks, the CIE of Ndokwa-West, Mrs. Ruth Oboh, commended the state government, Dr. Ashibogwu, and his team for their efforts to enhance the educational system.
