You will recall that at the start of his administration, the Governor split the Ministry of Education into two segments - one focusing on primary and secondary education, and the other on tertiary education. This demonstrates an intelligent recognition that each tier of education faces unique challenges and demands specialized attention. This structural innovation allows for more targeted policymaking, improved resource allocation, and more effective monitoring.
In a significant implementation of the policy on primary and secondary education, the Governor employed 1,936 teachers - 1,000 to senior secondary schools and 936 to Ebonyi State Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), for primary and junior secondary schools. In doing so, Governor Nwifuru has tackled one of the most pressing problems in the state’s education system, a shortage of teachers. A functioning education system depends, first and foremost, on the presence of qualified, motivated teachers. Without teachers in the classroom, infrastructure and curricula become irrelevant. This step alone is a major stride in improving the quality of teaching and learning.
The Chairman of Ebonyi State Secondary Education Board, Chief Mrs. Lilian Nwankwo noted that the Secondary Education Board will commence inspection and monitoring of these teachers, as they have been posted to schools - another commendable move. Recruitment alone is not enough. The value lies in the performance and dedication of those recruited. Monitoring will ensure that the teachers are not only present but are delivering quality education. This accountability structure will build a culture of professionalism and result-driven teaching.
These teachers will be trained adequately. The Governor’s commitment to “training and retraining of teachers,” as emphasized in The People's Charter of Needs, reflects a modern understanding of education as a dynamic field. As global education standards evolve, so too must the capacity of teachers. Continuous professional development is critical if Ebonyi’s schools are to meet national benchmarks and compete globally. This focus on training ensures that teachers remain updated in pedagogy, subject knowledge, and technology use in the classroom.
Let me attempt an enlistment of the importance of this move by the Governor:
Short-term Benefits:
- Reduction in Teacher-Student Ratio: With more teachers in the system, class sizes will shrink, allowing for more personalized attention to students and better learning outcomes.
- Job Creation: The employment of nearly 2,000 teachers injects income into local communities, promoting economic development and stability.
- Improved Morale in Schools: Schools previously struggling with understaffing now have relief, improving both student and teacher morale.
Long-term Implications:
- Human Capital Development: Quality education is the bedrock of any prosperous society. By investing in teachers today, Ebonyi is planting the seeds for a more skilled, innovative, and competitive workforce in the future.
- Sustainable Development: Education is the cornerstone of sustainable development. Trained, motivated teachers produce educated citizens who can lead, innovate, and solve local problems.
- Attracting Investment: A State with a strong educational foundation is more likely to attract investors, as it provides a literate, trainable workforce and shows long-term developmental vision.
Governor Nwifuru’s efforts reveal a leader who not only understands the importance of education but is also committed to solving its challenges with structural, sustainable, and practical solutions. His actions demonstrate:
- Focus on long-term change rather than quick fixes.
- Goodwill toward uplifting the socio-economic future of Ebonyi people.
- Genuine concern for youth development and empowerment.
- Political will to implement manifesto promises, showing accountability to the electorate.
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s actions in the education sector, particularly the employment of nearly 2,000 teachers, represents a strong foundation for transforming education in Ebonyi State. This effort is not just about today’s classrooms; it is an investment in the State’s future, its human capital, economic stability, and social development. These reforms will become a legacy of impactful leadership and visionary governance.
From Leo Ekene Oketa,
Special Assistant to the Governor
(New Media)
October 20, 2025.
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