The Ebonyi State Government has ordered an immediate clampdown on all illegal and substandard schools across the state. The tough measure, unveiled this week, is part of sweeping reforms aimed at rescuing the education sector from decay.
Commissioner for Education, Dr Donatus Chukwuma Ilang, warned that the days of mushroom schools lowering standards are over. He said government cannot fold its arms while unapproved institutions endanger the future of children. His declaration has already stirred heated debates among parents, teachers, and community leaders.
Speaking at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abakaliki, Dr Ilang directed senior officials led by the Governor’s aide on Secondary Education, Hon Peter Nwogbaga, and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Mary Otozi, to move immediately against offenders. He charged the team to enforce the order without compromise, insisting that only approved schools will be allowed to operate in Ebonyi.
Mrs Otozi, responding on behalf of the enforcement team, assured that the directive will be carried out to the letter. She pledged that no illegal operator will be spared, stressing that the Commissioner’s order is in the best interest of pupils and parents alike.
A taskforce has been constituted to embark on daily monitoring across the state. The team is expected to shut down erring schools, bring culprits to book, and restore sanity in classrooms.