By Uzo Ugwunze
Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Awka in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has flagged-off distribution of learning materials, furniture and sports equipment to the Public Primary and Junior Secondary Schools across the State
The items for distribution include text books, exercise books, statutory records, interactive digital boards, school bags, pens, pencils, sports equipment, marine craft, desks and chairs among others worth millions of naira were procured by UBEC in partnership with the Anambra State government, as part of the continued efforts to support basic education development in the State.
Speaking during the distribution, Executive Chairman, ASUBEB, Awka, Dr. Justina Anyadiegwu noted that the event was not just ceremonial, but a bold statement of the State government’s unwavering commitment to the future of Anambra children and the advancement of quality basic education in the State.
She extolled Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his visionary leadership and passion for building a smart, prosperous, and livable homeland, which she said has continued to inspire transformative reforms across all sectors, including education.
“Beyond infrastructure and learning materials, this administration is laying the foundation for smart schools, smart teachers, and smart learners equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values required for the 21st Century learners”, she said.
Appreciating UBEC for its sustained partnership, support and commitment in improving basic education delivery in Nigeria and Anambra State in particular, ASUBEB boss said the collaboration has continued to yield impactful results that directly benefits the learners and teachers.
She described investments in the classroom as investment in security, prosperity, innovation and the future stability of society itself.
Earlier, Director of Administration, ASUBEB, Mrs Florence Chinweze described education as the bedrock of sustainable development, noting that the provision of instructional materials was critical to achieving improved learning outcomes.
According to her, effective teaching and learning can only thrive in an environment where both teachers and learners are adequately equipped.
On his part, State Coordinator of UBEC, Mr. Kingsley Nlewedim noted that the learning materials were expected to enhance teaching and learning, improve classroom comfort, and promote sporting activities.
He charged teachers and School Administrators to ensure the instructional materials were properly utilized and maintained for the benefit of the learners.
In their separate speeches, State House Committee Chairman on Education, Hon. Anayo Okpaleke and Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Oguguo, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu praised Soludo for his resolve to strengthen basic education in the State.
They added that the essential learning materials would address critical gaps in the State basic schools where the children of the poor are found.
Other speakers, including Executive Secretary, Post Primary Schools Service Commission, PPSSC, Awka, Mrs Bernardine Anagor; and Special Assistant to the Governor on Education, Mrs Oby Chiegboka reiterated the Governor’s resolve to ending the era of pupils learning on bare floor.
They stressed that teachers and learners are always happy when learning materials are provided, and expressed confidence that the Head-teachers would make effective use of the learning materials.
State Secretary, Association of Primary Schools Headteachers of Nigeria, AOPSHON, Mr. Joseph Ikpeani, and a pupil from Udeozor Memorial Primary School, Awka, Master Chidubem Ekwunife thanked the Governor and UBEC officials for providing the learning materials and prayed God to bless them.
Official flag-off ceremony and a symbolic presentation of the learning materials to the beneficiaries, and cultural dance were the highlights of the occasion.
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