In a monumental step towards transforming education in Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki has unveiled the School-based Management Boards and Committees in Benin City. This innovative initiative encompasses both the Senior Secondary School level and the Basic Education level, signaling a new era of collaborative governance in the education sector.
The event also witnessed the momentous launch of the Nigeria Learning Passport, spearheaded by Mr. Babagana Aminu, an education specialist representing the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). This groundbreaking passport is designed to complement traditional face-to-face learning, closing the education poverty gap not only in Edo State but across Nigeria.
Governor Obaseki urged all stakeholders, including parents, guardians, donor agencies, and school-based management boards, to rally behind the government’s efforts in providing relevant and quality education in the State.
He emphasized that quality education is a costly endeavor that cannot be solely funded by the State Government. To further demonstrate his commitment to holistic education, the Governor announced the reintroduction of sporting activities such as the Principal’s Cup and the Governor’s Cup and pledged to personally donate to the competitions.
The Governor made it clear that loitering during school hours will not be tolerated, and parents of such children will face arrest and prosecution. Moreover, he revealed that schools would resume on September 12, 2022, and assured that academic activities would commence on the same day. Governor Obaseki plans to actively participate in the monitoring exercise, deploying teams to inspect schools personally.
Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, the Commissioner for Education, expressed gratitude to the various stakeholders for their contributions to the development of the EdoBEST 2.0 Curriculum. She assured everyone that the newly established institutions would ensure the continuity of ongoing reforms within the State’s education ecosystem. Notably, she acknowledged the invaluable input of indigenous professionals in shaping this curriculum.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the technologically advanced Nigeria Learning Passport to executive principals. Additionally, two beneficiaries – Mrs. Noragbon Osaru, a retired Headmistress of Emotan Primary School, and Teacher Idele Benedicta (Mrs.), a Biology teacher at Asoro Grammar School – were awarded keys to housing units at the prestigious Emotan Gardens Estate in Benin City, recognizing their outstanding contributions to education.
