No going back on Taraba’s free education policy – Gov. Kefas
…Over 100,000 school uniforms, bags, sandals, other materials ready for distribution
By Matthew Denis
Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas has said that the pursuit of free and compulsory education is essential for shaping the future generation, and this commitment will not be reversed.
Kefas made this statement at a meeting with public school Principals and Head Teachers, held at Jolly Nyame Stadium’s Gym Hall in Jalingo on Monday.
He reiterated that there is no going back on his free and compulsory education policy as education remains the key to progress in all areas of human endeavours.
The Governor disclosed that his administration is working tirelessly to ensure that not only the young people get the best but also their teachers.
He urged the Teachers to interact with parents to ensure that all children are enrolled in school.
The Governor declared that deserving teachers would receive promotions and instructed the state ministry of education to constitute a committee to assess the matter and submit recommendations.
He also gave assurance that the outstanding Teachers’ salaries arrears will be paid before December 2024, as well as work on the review of the running costs of schools, among others.
Dr. Kefas revealed that about 100,000 school uniforms, bags, sandals, and other materials are ready and will soon be released to schools for distribution to students.
“We are working tirelessly with the Civil Defence Service to work on the physical security of the school environment to ensure a safe atmosphere for learning,” he added.
The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin, acknowledged in her welcome address that Dr. Agbu Kefas’ efforts have successfully transitioned the state from educationally disadvantaged to educationally competitive.
According to her, the Governor’s free and compulsory education policy has led to significant increases in school enrollment across the state.
While assuring that the education ministry will remain committed to supporting the Governor’s vision, the Commissioner pleaded for the implementation of Teachers’ promotions to boost their morale.
The Acting Chairperson of Taraba State Universal Basic Education, Mrs. Rabi Samuel, and the Acting Executive Secretary of Taraba State Post Primary School Management Board, Mrs. Elizabeth Zakaria Yoruta, agreed that Governor Agbu Kefas’ emergence brought unprecedented transformation to the education sector.
According to them, the Governor has intervened in vital ways that have kept the school running as well as Head Teachers and Principals empowered to deliver their services.
They observed that Teachers are responding with renewed commitment and dedication, and the state is today a model for the delivery of free and compulsory education in the country.
The state art council and some music artists made presentations at the event.
