By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Prof. Stephen Odey, has cautioned head teachers and principals of public and private schools against collecting illegal levies from students, warning that offenders would face strict sanctions.
Odey gave the directive on Tuesday during a meeting with school heads in Calabar, stressing that all authorised payments must be made into designated government accounts and not into personal accounts of administrators.
He explained that the meeting was convened to align stakeholders with government reforms for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The Commissioner threatened to shut down schools operating without approval and outlined key reforms designed to improve the quality and transparency of education delivery in the state.
Education Reforms Announced
According to Odey, the reforms include:
- Teachers’ Promotion: A framework to recognise and reward teachers’ dedication and service.
- Student Index Numbers: Introduction of unique identifiers for every student to streamline tracking and management.
- Digitalised Results: Electronic processing of results for efficiency and accuracy.
- Approved Textbooks: Mandatory adoption of government-approved textbooks to standardise learning.
- Anti-Drug and Anti-Bullying Clubs: Establishment of clubs to promote a safe and healthy school environment.
- Support for Children with Special Needs: Provision of enhanced resources and accommodations for students with disabilities.
- School Leadership Structure: Streamlining to one vice principal and one head teacher per school.
The Commissioner further directed that the Ministry would enforce punctuality among staff and students, while warning that illegal schools risk immediate closure.
He disclosed that a request has been made to the Governor for vehicles to enhance school monitoring and supervision. Additionally, Odey encouraged administrators to make use of the remodelled state library to improve their professional competence and to comply strictly with examination registration deadlines.
Other speakers at the meeting included the Special Adviser on Education, Dr Afiong Ugbaja, and the Permanent Secretary, Barr. Francis Oyije, both of whom pledged support for the reforms. The National President of ANCOPPS, Mr Etim Nsa, also assured the Commissioner of principals’ cooperation.
