Anambra Governor Soludo Announces Free Education for Public School Students

 

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has announced the implementation of free education for all public primary and secondary school students in the state. The announcement was made on Thursday during an interactive session with principals and head teachers from public schools across Anambra State, held at the Professor Dora Akunyili Women's Development Center in Awka, the state capital.

Free Education Initiative for All Public School Students

Governor Soludo disclosed that Anambra State now offers free education from kindergarten through Senior Secondary School (SSS 3). He emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure that every child in the state, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, has access to quality education. The governor also directed that all senior secondary school students who had already paid their school fees for the current term should have their fees refunded.

"Yes, we now have truly free education in Anambra. In all public schools, we should be able to guarantee that every child has access to free and quality education, especially for the poorest of the poor," Governor Soludo stated.

Ongoing Educational Support and Increased Enrollment

The governor highlighted the ongoing policy of free education for students from kindergarten to Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS 3), which has led to significant changes in school enrollment statistics. Since the declaration of free education, enrollment in public schools has increased by 18%, while the rate of out-of-school children has dropped by 2%. This achievement has positioned Anambra as the state with the lowest percentage of out-of-school children in Nigeria.

Governor Soludo also noted the importance of supporting mission schools, stating, "We have posted over 2,000 teachers to mission schools as a way of subsidizing education."

Commitment to Technology and Infrastructure

Governor Soludo stressed the importance of improving the technological infrastructure in Anambra's public schools, emphasizing the need for "smart teachers" and "smart schools." He revealed that the state is in the process of upscaling technology in schools by installing over 2,000 fiber optic cables, aimed at enhancing the quality of education.

"There are no smart teachers without smart schools. We are gradually upscaling technology in our schools, with the current laying of over 2,000 fiber optic cables," he added.

Addressing Gaps in Public School Access

Governor Soludo acknowledged that there are about 77 communities in Anambra without public schools, but assured that his administration is working to address this issue and provide education options for all residents. He emphasized the need for investment in human capital, calling it the state's greatest asset.

"Human capital is our greatest asset. We are working to create a human capital that is productive at home and exportable abroad, leaving no one behind as true progressives," he said.

The governor added that with the free education initiative, Anambra State is effectively putting money back into the pockets of residents. "With this latest initiative, we will be putting thousands of money back to the pockets of Ndị Anambra," he stated.

Continuous Learning for Teachers

Governor Soludo reiterated his administration's commitment to providing resources for continuous learning and professional development for teachers in Anambra. He urged all stakeholders to join efforts in securing the future of education in the state.

"Securing our future is a collective effort. We must seize the opportunity now. It is the greatest investment we can make," he said.

Summary of Key Initiatives:

• Free Education for All: Public primary and secondary school students in Anambra now benefit from free education.
• Refund of School Fees: Senior secondary students who have paid their school fees for the term will be refunded.
• Increased Enrollment: The introduction of free education has led to an 18% increase in public school enrollment and a 2% reduction in out-of-school children.
• Support for Mission Schools: Over 2,000 teachers have been posted to mission schools to subsidize education.
• Technology Integration: Installation of over 2,000 fiber optic cables to enhance education technology in schools.
• Addressing School Access Gaps: Efforts are underway to provide public schools in 77 communities that currently lack them.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo's free education initiative is a significant step towards improving access to quality education in Anambra State. By prioritizing education for all and supporting technological advancements, the administration aims to create a robust educational system that will benefit current and future generations.