The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr Donatus C. Ilang, has warned proprietors operating unapproved private schools in the state to regularise their status or face sanctions.
Dr Ilang issued the warning during the closure of Delight International School, Onuebonyi, in Abakaliki Local Government Area, and Heirloom Foundation Schools, located on Odunna Street, Ugwuachara, in Ebonyi Local Government Area, for allegedly operating without the required approval.
Speaking during the enforcement exercise, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Mrs Mary Ngozi Otozi, said every child in Ebonyi State deserves access to quality education in a safe and conducive learning environment provided by qualified teachers.
She stressed that the state government remains committed to raising educational standards and ensuring that schools operate in line with established regulations and policies.
According to her, individuals seeking to establish schools must meet all requirements prescribed by the Ministry of Education before commencing operations.
Mrs Otozi warned proprietors operating schools in rented apartments, residential buildings or other unsuitable facilities without official approval to discontinue such activities immediately or face the full weight of the law.
She noted that the ministry had provided ample time for operators to comply with regulatory requirements, adding that enforcement actions would continue against defaulters.
The permanent secretary also cautioned schools against collecting unapproved levies, including illegal charges imposed on parents and guardians.
She disclosed that ongoing investigations by the ministry's surveillance team had uncovered reports of unauthorised fees in some schools and warned that affected institutions would face sanctions when investigations are concluded.
Mrs Otozi advised prospective school proprietors to seek guidance from the Ministry of Education before establishing schools to ensure full compliance with operational standards.
She added that the operators of the affected schools would be required to explain why further disciplinary measures should not be taken against them.
The permanent secretary further disclosed that surveillance and enforcement activities would be intensified across the state, stressing that more illegal schools would be identified and sanctioned.
She also revealed that members of the Ministry of Education's surveillance team are currently undergoing specialised training to enhance monitoring, compliance and enforcement operations across both public and private schools in the state.
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