The Abia State Government has reaffirmed that basic education in public schools is free and mandatory, warning that anyone found extorting money from children prior to enrollment will face legal consequences.
This announcement was made by Lady Lydia Onuoha, the Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), during a handover ceremony for the enrollment of 29 out-of-school children and the flooring of classroom blocks at Community Primary School Umuala-Nsulu in Isialangwa North LGA.
The event, which marked the launch of the Education Trust Fund to support students, was organized by Caritas Nigeria in partnership with the State Ministries of Education, Women Affairs, ASUBEB, and the Justice Development and Peace Commission. Lady Onuoha, represented by Director Mrs. Nnenna Okenwa, stated that the Alex Otti administration is working to ensure that all public schools are equipped to compete with the best private schools in the state.
She said, "Governor Alex Chioma Otti is reinforcing the principle that basic education must be free and compulsory. If anyone demands payment from a child for school admission, the government will take a strong stance against it.
“Soon, public schools in Abia State will be unrecognizable, including your own."
She stated that plans are in place to provide perimeter fencing, structures, and all necessary facilities
Also, Mrs. Naomi Thompson, the Technical Officer under the OVC unit of Caritas Nigeria, mentioned that the NGO, which has been active for 14 years, is collaborating with schools and stakeholders from various ministries and communities through a memorandum of understanding to help enroll out-of-school children.
“Our vision as an implementing organization in Abia State is to foster an environment where everyone can enjoy a fulfilling life.
“HopeSpring Development Initiative has partnered with JDPC and Caritas Nigeria to cover the first school leaving certificate exam fee for Umuala Community Primary School, recognizing your growth, dedication, and commitment as a community and a school,” Mrs. Thompson stated.
Mr. Godspower Ahuama, the Chairman of the School Management Committee, urged the government and affluent individuals to focus on providing solutions for underprivileged children and to address the deteriorating infrastructure and shortage of teachers in public schools.
The traditional ruler of the community, Eze Patrick Anaba, the headmistress of the school, Mrs. Nwakpa Nwolorondu, and the parents of the students, filled with joy, pledged to provide additional learning materials to support pupils from the LGA.
