The Anambra State Government says plans are underway to upgrade 29 public schools in the state into ‘smart schools’ for efficient and technology-driven education system.
Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, the state Commissioner for Education, made the disclosure while speaking with journalists on Tuesday in Awka.
She described ‘smart school’ as an educational institution that integrated advanced technology and innovative tools to enhance classroom learning and teaching.
“Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration is prioritising the education sector by establishing a robust educational system for public schools in the state.
“Plans are underway, under the first phase of the state government’s education reform, to upgrade 29 public schools to ‘smart schools’ with subsequent phases targeting more schools across the state.
“This will make education more engaging, efficient, and aligned with the demands of the modern world.
“It will also prepare students to adapt to technology-driven environment and foster critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity,” she said.
The commissioner highlighted the employment of 8,150 teachers, free education policy from nursery to senior secondary level and rehabilitation of public schools, as some of the significant strides recorded to improve the education sector.
She said that the Soludo-led administration was also committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative, and child-focused educational environment that would leave no child behind.
“The state government pays the school fees of every child in public school to ensure that no child in Anambra is denied access to quality education.
“Through comprehensive quality assurance mechanism, the state government monitors and ensures that private schools adhere to state-approved curriculum,” she said.
Chuma-Udeh said the official closing time for primary and secondary schools were 1:30p.m and 2:30p.m, respectively.
According to her, if parents choose to enroll their child for private lessons or extracurricular activities outside the official school hours, it is entirely their decision. (NAN)