Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has initiated a comprehensive remodelling of public schools across the state, signalling a renewed commitment to improving the quality of education for children in the region. This ambitious project, encompassing schools in all three Senatorial Districts, underscores the administration’s dedication to providing conducive learning environments.
Governor Okpebholo made this announcement during the distribution of notebooks, textbooks, and other instructional materials in Benin City on Monday. The governor ordered that the books be distributed to schools in all 18 Local Government Areas of the state, ensuring equitable access to educational resources.
Describing the hoarding of the books by the previous administration as an act of “wickedness,” Governor Okpebholo lamented the delay in making these materials available to students.
Inspection at New Era College
Accompanied by the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Chairman, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, and other top government officials, the Governor inspected the New Era College in Benin City. Built by late Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia, the school was originally intended to serve as a hub for students with athletic talents but has since fallen into disrepair.
“This school is central to the city and critical to our children’s future,” Governor Okpebholo said. “What we saw here is unacceptable: children sitting on the floor to learn. This is not what Edo children deserve, especially under a program that claimed to be progressive like the Edobest initiative of the former administration.”
The Governor directed the SUBEB Chairman to begin preparations for the immediate reconstruction of New Era College, pledging visible progress within weeks.
Books Hoarded Under Previous Administration
Governor Okpebholo revealed that the instructional materials warehouse was filled with books donated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Edo State children. However, he claimed that the former governor, Godwin Obaseki, refused to distribute them, allegedly because they bore the President’s image.
“These books were meant to benefit Edo children, yet they were locked away for political reasons. This is an act of wickedness of the highest order. As we distribute these materials today, I want to extend my gratitude to the President for his generosity and assure him that these books will finally reach the children they were intended for,” the Governor stated.
Transformation Agenda
In addition to addressing the issues at New Era College, the Governor pledged to replicate the remodelling effort across public schools statewide. This initiative aims to enhance infrastructure, ensure adequate seating and learning materials, and restore dignity to the educational system.
Dr. Iyamu, the SUBEB Chairman, assured the public that the Governor’s directive would be implemented efficiently. “The distribution of these books to all 18 Local Government Areas is already underway. Governor Okpebholo is committed to ensuring that no child in Edo State is left behind,” he remarked.
Conclusion
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s bold steps to renovate public schools and distribute previously hoarded educational materials mark a pivotal moment in Edo State’s educational landscape. By addressing past shortcomings and prioritizing the needs of students, the Governor is charting a new course for the future of education in the state.
Signed:
Fred Itua
Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor
December 9, 2024
