In pursuit of Governor Francis Nwifuru’s vision for the education sector, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Donatus Ilang, has reaffirmed the ministry’s determination to confront the challenges hindering the system. He urged stakeholders to work closely with the ministry to cleanse and revitalise schools across the state.
Dr. Ilang made this known while receiving members of the Catholic Advisory Board on Education, Abakaliki Diocese. He explained that his invitation to the board was intended to brief them on ongoing reforms and policies, stressing the importance of collaboration with the ministry in achieving the government’s objectives for the education sector.
Highlighting the new measures, the Commissioner announced that the era of truancy was over. He revealed that transfer certificates had been reintroduced, and pupils who fail would be required to repeat their classes. He further disclosed that vocational and skills acquisition programmes would be incorporated into the school curriculum. Dr. Ilang vowed to eliminate illegal schools and so-called “miracle” examination centres in the state. He also warned those encroaching on school lands to desist or face arrest, while urging parents to take responsibility for their children’s welfare. According to him, monitoring teams have been set up to ensure strict compliance.
In their response, the Director, of the Catholic Advisory Board on Education, Abakaliki Diocese, Rev. Fr. Dr. Edward Inya-nwachi-, and the Secretary, Prof. Nkechi Emma-Echiegu, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for the engagement. They described the meeting as a step in the right direction and pledged to align with the ministry’s policies and reforms while sharing some of the challenges faced by mission schools.
Also speaking, Assistant Director Rev. Fr. Christian Nkwuda prayed for the sustainability of the ministry’s policies and urged that they should not be compromised. He commended Dr. Ilang’s past achievements, describing his appointment as a continuation of his proven track record, and assured him of the church’s support, particularly through prayers for him and the state.