Abia State Government has taken a bold step towards ensuring every child has access to education by announcing stringent measures against parents and guardians who fail to enroll their children in school. Governor Alex Otti revealed this directive during this year’s Children’s Day celebration at the Umuahia Township Stadium, where he addressed the enthusiastic crowd of pupils and students despite the heavy rain.
Governor Otti emphasized the government’s zero tolerance for the non-enrollment of school-age children in the state. He warned that offenders would face penalties under legislation enacted by the State House of Assembly. He assured the Ministry of Education is actively exploring scholarship opportunities to support financially disadvantaged families, ensuring no child is left behind.
Furthermore, Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing education by allocating 20% of the state budget to the sector in 2024. He pledged to enhance the infrastructure and facilities in primary and post-primary schools, including providing science and technology laboratories, hostels, teachers’ quarters, and electronic libraries.
In addition to addressing the needs of mainstream education, Governor Otti demonstrated sensitivity towards children with special needs. He abolished the payment of levies for special books at the School for the Blind in Afara, Umuahia, and donated a bus to the institution. Moreover, he directed the commencement of perimeter fencing for the school, recognizing the importance of creating an enabling environment for inclusive education.
Governor Otti also announced measures to improve the Special Education Center for the Deaf and Mentally Challenged, including the donation of a bus and plans to upgrade the facility to accommodate a secondary section. His wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, highlighted various initiatives to empower Abia children, emphasizing the importance of adult education and mass literacy centers to bridge the literacy gap.
Furthermore, Otti assured the children and youths of Abia State that his administration would prioritize the welfare of their parents and guardians by ensuring timely payment of salaries and pensions. He apologized for the hardships endured during the past administration’s tenure and vowed to create a brighter future for Abia’s children through effective leadership and governance.
In his closing remarks, Governor Otti reassured Abia’s children that the neglect and hardship era was over, promising a new dawn of prosperity and opportunity under his watch. He urged them to remain hopeful and committed to their education, knowing that the government is dedicated to their well-being and future success.
