The Enugu State government has taken decisive action by shutting down several schools accused of being substandard and operating illegally.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Education, Ndubueze Mbah, on Saturday, as he enforced the government’s policy aimed at strengthening and enhancing the quality of education across the state.
Mr. Mbah explained that the initiative is part of efforts to eradicate poor educational standards and skill deficiencies.
Among the schools affected are Evangel School, Ivory Education Centre on Owerri Road in Asata, Eastview Nursery and Primary School at Railway Quarters in Njemanze, St. Michael Nursery and Primary School in Asata, St. Bartholomew Nursery, Primary and Secondary School in Asata, and Olive Grove Nursery and Primary Academy in Njemanze.
The commissioner noted that the closures followed a prior directive from the ministry requiring all operators of educational institutions at the basic and secondary school levels to adhere to state regulations.
He stated, “The government made registration and approval by the ministry mandatory for any school to operate.”
“We sensitized our people about the state government’s education policy and how education must align with the most advanced global practices if our children are to acquire 21st-century skills and knowledge needed to compete globally. We gave them four months grace for all schools yet to register or obtain provisional licenses to do so.”
Mr. Mbah expressed concern over the deplorable conditions of some of the schools visited, stating that they were operating with open roofs, fallen rafters, and severely cracked walls, subjecting hundreds of pupils to inadequate learning environments.
“This situation is a complete disregard of the rules guiding the establishment and management of educational institutions,” he remarked.
The commissioner emphasized that the state government is committed to raising educational standards by ensuring the presence of competent and qualified teachers, adherence to the curriculum, and a conducive learning environment, along with other necessary safety measures for students.
He lamented the proliferation of illegal schools throughout the state, where unscrupulous proprietors exploit parents without providing quality education for their children.
“Some schools paraded unqualified teachers while cramping children into dilapidated structures that endanger their lives,” Mr. Mbah added.
