Report from Abia State, South East Nigeria says, the Governor of the State, Alex Otti, has announced the stoppage of Parent-Teacher Association levies and other fees in schools.
The Governor, has declared a ban on all types of payments in Primary and Secondary Schools across the state.
In his New Year Message, Otti emphasised his administration’s commitment to protecting the future of children.
“We have halted all forms of payments in the Primary and Secondary schools.
“It is imperative that no PTA levies be imposed on any parent or guardian within the public school system of the state,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Governor has introduced a new Financial System “aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of public schools.
“An imprest account system has been implemented for the operation of schools.
“Headteachers and school principals are now granted designated monthly sums to oversee the daily operations of their schools.
“There is no justification for extorting or denying any child the opportunities that accompany education and enlightenment.
“We will enforce strictly, and it would be a serious error to challenge our resolve,” he added.
The Governor outlined his administration’s plans for 2025, highlighting the pressing nature of his government’s developmental agenda.
“We are in a significant rush; our goal is to realise the ambitions of this administration: to establish systems and structures; to reconstruct our state and to adjust governance priorities to align with the genuine aspirations of the populace.
“We have since developed a system that focusses on the needs of the marginalised by paying attention, listening and directing public resources to areas that provide the greatest social and economic benefits to the majority,” he stated.
Otti announced that 35 percent of the state’s total budget will be allocated to education and health, emphasising the significance of these sectors in the transformation of Abia State.
“Efforts will be accelerated to transform our schools into hubs of excellence for effective teaching and learning,” he said.
“The law requiring all school-age children to attend school every day is now in effect as of today. With the commencement of the new school term later this month, it will become illegal for any child to be found outside the classroom during school hours,” he stated.
Otti issued a caution regarding potential threats to public safety.
“We will not hesitate to utilise the full resources of the government against any individual or group whose actions threaten the safety of our citizens,” he warned.
“We are committed to taking all necessary measures to transform the state into a compelling destination for businesses looking to expand into new markets or reduce expenses.
“The state presents numerous opportunities, particularly in terms of human resources, enhanced social infrastructure, and streamlined business operations.” – NW
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