Kefas Declares Free, CompulsoryPrimary, Secondary Education in Taraba

Wole Ayodele in Jalingo

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has declared primary and secondary education free and compulsory in the state.

Making the declaration yesterday during an unscheduled visit to Ebenezer Primary School, Wukari, Governor Kefas stated that the decision has become imperative following the hardship being witnessed by the masses occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy.

The governor, who had earlier in the week slashed the tuition of the state university and the state School of Nursing by 50 per cent however noted that the free and compulsory education policy would take effect from the next academic session.

Kefas had shortly after assumption of office declared a state of emergency on education in the state while he declared the educational sector as very deplorable. According to the governor, “I understand that things are very difficult for everyone in the state and indeed the country. I promised to make life better for the people and I am determined to fulfill that promise.

“The education sector in the state is not what we want for our children. I have gone round several schools already and I see the conditions of these schools and we would make sure that we put them in good shape.

“With effect from next academic year, there would be no more payment of school fees for both primary and secondary schools in the state.

“We would introduce internet services in schools so that the technological deficit currently suffered by our students and pupils will be bridged. We would ensure that you receive standard and qualitative education like your fellow students anywhere in the world,” he said.