The Enugu State Government has given reasons why it shut down some schools in the state capital, over alleged substandard and illegal operation.
According to the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, the move is to boost and enhance the quality of education in State.
The Commissioner made the disclosure on Saturday during the enforcement of government’s policy on education development in the State.
Speaking to journalists in Enugu, Mbah said that the exercise was meant to rid the State of poor education quality and skill deficiency.
He said, “Some of the affected schools were Evangel School, Ivory Education Centre, located on Owerri Road, Asata and Eastview Nursery and Primary School at Railway Quarters, Njemanze.
Also sealed are St Michael Nursery and Primary School, Asata and St Bartholomew Nursery, Primary and Secondary School, Asata. Olive Grove Nursery and Primary Academy, Njemanze did not escape the ban.
The Commissioner informed that the exercise followed the ministry’s earlier directive. The Minister had required all the operators of educational institutions at the Basic and Secondary School levels to comply with the State regulations.
Mbah also added that Government made registration and approval by the ministry mandatory for any school to operate.
The Commissioner, however, regretted that some of the schools visited were operating under open-roof, fallen rafters and severely cracked walls. And these schools were housing hundreds of pupils under abysmal learning environment.
Mbah stated that the situation was in complete disregard of the rules guiding the establishment and management of educational institutions.
He said that the State Government would not compromise on its determination to raise the bar for education. This is by ensuring competent and qualified teachers, adherence to the curriculum, conducive learning environment and other safety measures for students.
Mbah described the proliferation of illegal schools across the state as worrisome and unacceptable. He noted that unscrupulous proprietors use these schools to rip off parents.
The Commissioner stated that proprietors were providing commensurate quality education for their children.
He said, “Some schools paraded unqualified teachers. While cramping children in dilapidated structures that put their lives in danger.
“We sensitized our people about the State Government’s education policy. And how education must align with the most advanced global practices. That if our children can have a chance to acquire 21st Century skills and modern workforce knowledge, they should be able to compete with their global peers.
“We gave them four months grace for all schools to register or obtain provisional licences.
“And we are doing this to checkmate abuses and restore the dignity of education in our State” Mbah said.
source: Daily Post
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