The Abia State government has issued a stern warning to principals and headteachers of public schools who are secretly collecting unauthorized fees and levies from students.
The government has threatened sanctions against any school officials found guilty of these practices.
Okey Kanu, the state’s Information Commissioner, made the announcement during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia, following the State Executive Council meeting on Monday.
He emphasized that such actions are direct violation of the state’s free and compulsory education policy, which applies to public primary and junior secondary schools.
Kanu explained that the government had already implemented a funding policy to support school operations, making the collection of unauthorized fees unjustifiable.
He added, “The state government will no longer tolerate these dishonest actions. Offenders will face the full weight of the law, including the potential for dismissal.”
Also, Kanu provided an update on the ongoing teacher recruitment process.
The final phase, which involved certificate verification and oral interviews, was conducted from March 31 to April 4.
About 7,000 applicants, including 180 persons with disabilities, who scored 45% and above, have been shortlisted.
Those who scored between 40% and 44% have been placed on a reserve list to fill vacancies that may arise due to absenteeism or disqualification.
He noted that this initiative would also help create a comprehensive database of qualified teachers, ensuring the state can meet future staffing needs as enrollment grows under the free education program.
The government has also approved a second phase of recruitment for candidates who missed the initial round.
In collaboration with the Education Reformation and Innovation Team, the state government is set to train 2,200 teachers across the state.
This training, designed to improve teaching quality and student outcomes in public schools, will take place from April 10 to 19 across three centers in Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia.
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Goodluck Ubochi, clarified that while the free education initiative applies to primary and junior secondary school students, Senior Secondary School students will be required to pay a minimal fee of N3,300 for tuition.
He further explained that the teacher recruitment drive aims to address the growing demand for teachers as more students enroll due to the free education policy.
The next recruitment phase will focus on technical and vocational subjects, where there is a significant shortage of qualified teachers.