The Akwa Ibom State Government has issued a stern warning to head teachers of public schools, cautioning them against corrupt practices such as extorting funds from students. This directive follows reports of misconduct by a school head allegedly involved in illegal financial dealings with parents.
During the distribution of ARISE branded exercise books to pupils across public primary schools in Uyo senatorial district, the state’s Commissioner of Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, expressed dissatisfaction with the reported incidents. She emphasized that such actions undermine the government’s commitment to providing a seamless and efficient education system in the state under Governor Umo Eno’s administration.
Addressing a gathering of teachers and school administrators, Commissioner Etiebet stressed the importance of maintaining the state’s policy of free education. She warned head teachers of severe consequences, including demotion, for any involvement in extorting money from students.
“In the coming days, we will take disciplinary action against a head teacher who allegedly demanded illegal fees from new intakes and extorted significant sums from pupils for placement letters,” Commissioner Etiebet declared, underscoring the gravity of the misconduct.
John Udo, a member of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), confirmed that investigations into the allegations had been concluded. He assured that refunds for the illegal charges would be processed promptly to rectify the situation.
Highlighting Governor Umo Eno’s achievements in education within his tenure, Commissioner Etiebet mentioned initiatives such as covering WASSCE and NABTEB fees annually, infrastructure development in schools, and the establishment of a 100 million Naira Educational Trust Fund for students with disabilities.
To ensure accountability in the distribution of the exercise books, Commissioner Etiebet mandated that the process be supervised by Governor Eno’s Personal Aides from the 368 wards across the state. This measure aims to guarantee that resources reach their intended beneficiaries efficiently and transparently.
The government’s proactive stance in monitoring educational activities was further emphasized by Mrs. Stella Etukakpan, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, and Dr. Essien Ndueso, Senior Special Assistant on Research and Documentation. Both officials highlighted the rigorous monitoring mechanisms in place, including the use of iPads by ward Personal Assistants to document and report on distribution processes.
In response to these developments, Mr. Simon Udo, Chairman of the Association of Primary School Head of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State, commended Governor Umo Eno for prioritizing education and fostering a culture of learning and accountability in the state’s schools.
The crackdown on corrupt practices underscores the government’s commitment to upholding transparency and fairness in the educational sector, ensuring that every child in Akwa Ibom State has access to quality education without financial impediments.
