MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
(PRIMARY & SECONDARY),
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
(PRIMARY & SECONDARY),
ASABA
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PRESS RELEASE OF 7TH JUNE, 2006 |
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The Adult Education Supervisions in the various local government areas in the State have been warned against the registration of children as adult learners in adult education centres. This warning was given today in Ozoro, headquarters of isoko North Local Government Area by the State Commissioner for Secondary and Primary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the monitoring of the Primary Six School Leaving Certificate examination. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that Adult Education Centres were meant for adults who either did not have the opportunity of going to school at their prime or dropped out on the way and then wondered why a child of ten years old was enrolled in an adult education center where there primary schools around. She said that on closer examination, it was observed that most of the children how enrolled for the examinations were used to write for either their Parents or other relations. At Notre Dame College,
Ozoro center, 5 out of the children in the adult examination hall confessed
writing the examination for their father, mother or sister while at
the James Welch Grammar School, Emevor Centre, an SS I student. Master
Ogaga Eferogo of Emevor Mixed Secondary School, Emevor was caught writing
the examination for his father who is a Security Guard with At Olou Primary School, Bomadi center, 10 little children, some of them from the same primary school enrolled as adult candidates. In her reaction to this ugly development. Dr. Ogbuagu expressed great worry that in spite of the crusade against examination malpractice, some parents still indulge on the unwholesome behaviour stressing that the Ministry would continue the fight until the canker-worm was wiped out from the school system. She once more appealed to the State House of Assembly to expedite action on the bill against examination malpractice so that offenders would be dealt with accordingly. The Commissioner however emphasized that with the full implementation of the Universal Basic Education Scheme, certification of the pupils at this level of education would be based purely on continuous assessment and there would be no room for examination malpractice.
Ministry of Primary
and Secondary Education, |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 5TH JUNE, 2006 |
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Principals and teachers in schools in the State have been advised to encourage their pupils and students to actively get involved in extra-curricular activities. This appeal was given today in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr, Veronica Ogbuagu during interactive sessions with Principals, staff and students of some schools in Asaba. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that such exposures would open more windows for the children to exhibit their God given and hidden talents as if not tapped would be lost to humanity. She said that pupils and students that had made their marks in other fields of human endeavour did so because of encouragement from either their teachers or their peers. The Commissioner therefore called on school authorities to devote some time in the school calendar for their students to engage themselves in extra-curricular activities where they would freely exercise themselves. Dr. 0§uagu equally admonished the teachers to put more efforts in teaching their students as it had been observed that students who were taught very well usually performed better in examinations. She also advised the students to shun all vices such as cultism, examination malpractice, alcoholism and prostitution as any of these would hamper their future growth and development. The Commissioner assured the schools that the Ministry would continue to provide them with facilities that would enhance teaching and learning in their schools. During the interactive sessions, the principals were asked a number of questions which most of them answered to the satisfaction of the Commissioner and her team. The schools visited were Osadenis High School I and II, Asagba Mixed Secondary School and Niger Mixed Secondary School and in Asaba. The highlight of the occasion was the invitation of some students to exhibit their talents to the admiration of all.
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PRESS RELEASE OF 27TH MAY, 2006 |
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Principals of secondary school in Delta State have been called upon to work out best strategies that would make the implementation of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) succeed. This appeal was made yesterday in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the opening ceremony of the 4th State Congress of All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Delta State Wing. Dr. Ogbuagu who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Benjamin Umuze said that such positive strategies would promote good education to the child at that level. She stated that previous education policies such as the Universal Primary Education (UPE) did not achieve the desired goals due to inherent lapses in the implementation of the policy. The Commissioner highlighted some of the problems to include inadequate funding and insufficient manpower stressing that for the new policy to achieve the desired goals, adequate funding, training and recruitment of enough and qualified personnel should be engaged in teaching the pupils. Dr. Ogbuagu therefore solicited for the support of international donor agencies for assistance in form of grants and soft loans to augment the funding from the government. While commending the President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo for his effort and zeal in strengthening the foundation of our educational system, she called on the teachers who are the implementors of the programme to give out their best in order to leave a worthy legacy for the youths. In her own speech, the Executive Chairman of the Post Primary Education Board, Mrs. Irene Imilar said that the theme of the congress "Effective Implementation of the Universal Basic Education: Problems and Prospects" was a clear testimony of the acceptance of the new policy by Principals and teachers. Mrs. Imilar stated that the Universal Basic Education like every new policy has its teething problems but where the teachers genuinely support government good intentions, the policy would yield the required results. She assured them that Government would continue to assist them in making their task through the prompt payment of salaries, claims and promotions as could be seen in the elevation of eight of their members to the status of Permanent Secretaries. Earlier in his welcome address the outgoing President of ANCOPSS, Chief Emmanuel Ekec commended the State Government for improving the lots of teachers as well as the appointment of eight of their members as Permanent Secretaries. He however called
on the State Government to provide the association with a 504 station
wagon vehicle for its activities, sponsorship of at least 100 Principals
to the African convention of Principals at Abuja in August this year,
the recruitment of A new State Executive of the Association is expected to emerge at the end of the congress.
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PRESS RELEASE OF 26TH MAY, 2006 |
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An appeal has gone to old students associations, philanthropic organizations, cooperate bodies, non-governmental organizations to make positive contributions towards educational development in the State. This appeal was made yesterday in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the commissioning ceremony of water project donated to St. Patrick's Model College by an old boy of the school, Mr. Gift Nikoro. Dr. Ogbuagu who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Benjamin Umuze stated that the infrastructural needs of the schools were so many for the Government to shoulder single handedly hence the need for external support. She said that the gesture of the donor would go a long way in solving the water needs of the school and therefore called on other spirited individuals to emulate the worthy example of Mr. Nikoro and contribute their own quota towards the improvement of the schools. The Commissioner advised the students to make judicious use of the water project and shun all forms of vices such as cultism, robbery and examination malpractice which had become the bane of our society especially in the education industry. In his speech, the donor, Mr. Gift Nikoro said that he was prompted to donate the water project due to the acute water shortage confronting the students in the school. Mr. Nikoro stated that he had made a similar donation to Ugbomro Secondary School, Ugbomro in Uvwie Local Government Area earlier in the year. Earlier in his welcome address, the Principal of the school. Sir Patrick Okiwelu stated that the provision of the bore-hole would supplement the two existing ones installed by the State Government and the other one from Chevron/NNPC Joint Venture. While assuring the donor that the school would jealously guard the water scheme to ensure that no part of it was vandalized or mis-handled, the Principal appealed to other well meaning people to assist by erecting protective wire gauze or block fence around the structure.
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PRESS RELEASE OF 17TH MAY, 2006 |
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The award ceremony for Deltans who distinguished themselves in the crusade against examination malpractice in the 2004 and 2005 examinations earlier scheduled for Friday, 19th May, 2006 has shifted to Tuesday, 30th May, 2006 in Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba beginning at 11.00 A.M. prompt. In a statement issued today in Asaba by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education said that the change in date was due to circumstances beyond the control of the Ministry and regretted the inconveniences caused by the postponement. It also called on the invited Guest and awardees to take note of the new date and be seated before the arrival of the Special Guest of Honur. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 12TH MAY, 2006 |
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Proprietors of private schools who indulge in the admission of students from government owned schools in order to perpetuate examination malpractice will loose their licenses and such schools would be closed down. This warning was given today at Umunede in Ika North East Local Government Area by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu while monitoring the on going West African Examination Council Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination. Dr. Ogbuagu wondered how a school with less than twenty students in SSII could enroll 74 candidates for the examination left much to be desired. She found to her shock that in the school. Dynamic Secondary Commercial School, Umunede there were only 2 students in JSSI, none in JSS II, 2 in JSS III, 6 in SSI and 8 in SS II and therefore wanted to know where the students in SS II came from. The Commissioner appealed to the Proprietors to have the fear of God in their quest for wealth as any money gotten through fraudulent ways would not last but could create problems for such persons. Dr. Ogbuagu had earlier visited Top grade College and Divine Academy both in Umunede where she commended the sitting arrangements in the examination halls. The Special Assistant I to the Commissioner, Dr. Hope Oniyama and other officials from the Ministry were with the Commissioner during the monitoring. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 10TH MAY, 2006 |
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Proprietors of private schools who indulge in the admission of students from government owned schools in order to perpetuate examination malpractice will loose their licenses and such schools would be closed down. This warning was given today at Umunede in Ika North East Local Government Area by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu while monitoring the on going West African Examination Council Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination. Dr. Ogbuagu wondered how a school with less than twenty students in SSII could enroll 74 candidates for the examination left much to be desired. She found to her shock that in the school. Dynamic Secondary Commercial School, Umunede there were only 2 students in JSSI, none in JSS II, 2 in JSS III, 6 in SSI and 8 in SS II and therefore wanted to know where the students in SS II came from. The Commissioner appealed to the Proprietors to have the fear of God in their quest for wealth as any money gotten through fraudulent ways would not last but could create problems for such persons. Dr. Ogbuagu had earlier visited Top grade College and Divine Academy both in Umunede where she commended the sitting arrangements in the examination halls. The Special Assistant I to the Commissioner, Dr. Hope Oniyama and other officials from the Ministry were with the Commissioner during the monitoring exercise Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 8TH MAY, 2006 |
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The absence of relevant textbooks for use by teachers and students has been described as one of the problems affecting reading culture in the school system. This assertion was made today in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the opening ceremony for the 2006 Book Review for post primary schools in the State. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that most school libraries were not in existence and where they could be found were poorly equipped while in others such libraries were equipped with books that were no longer relevant to the curriculum. She noted that printed materials such as books were ageless instruments used for enhancing national integration, cooperation and understanding stressing that books were agents for promoting well informed and well adjusted individuals. The Commissioner noted that the Ministry in her efforts to tackle the problem had produced Jingles on radio and television calling on parents and guardians to purchase books for their children and wards. Dr. Ogbuagu therefore implored the book reviewers not to recommend books characterized with difficult use of language, wrong spellings, wrong use of words, inappropriate content, poor binding and printing but should recommend books for their intellectual excellence, contemporary aptness and usefulness. She equally advised them not to fall into undue influences by either the authors and publishers who were desperately lurking around for their books to be adopted. Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Examinations and Standard in the Ministry, Mrs. Rosaline Edobor said that this years book review was the fourth in the series since the creation of the State geared towards achieving the goals of constantly promoting, formulating, implementing, reviewing and amending policies on education. Mrs. Edobor stated that the present administration had spent a lot of money in the education subsector than any other administration in the State and the only way the teachers could give back to the State was to do their duties conscientiously. She stated that each book reviewer was expected to collect the set of books that were related to their teaching subject, do a thorough review of them and come out with candid opinions that would stood the test of time The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Benjamin Umuze, the Special Assistant II to the Commissioner, Mr. Robert Scott-Emuakpor, Directors and some Chief Inspector of Education attending the ceremony. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 5TH MAY, 2006 |
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The State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu has advised perpetrators of examination malpractice to stay away from examinations centres during the forth coming senior school certificate examinations. Dr. Ogbuagu gave this advise yesterday in Asaba during the briefing session for Examination Marshals and Monitors on the strategies for the monitoring of the examinations. She stated that the scourge of examination malpractice had assumed a worrisome dimension through out the country and if no meaningful efforts were made to curtail it, the future of the young ones would be jeopardy. The Commissioner noted that in conscious of this, the Ministry of Education since 2004 introduced the concept of Examination marshals whose activities had actually complemented the efforts or the examination monitors who had been in the vanguard in the fight against examination fraud. Dr. Ogbuagu identified perpetrators of examination malpractice to include some parents. Principals of Schools, teachers, owners of private schools, supervisor some officials of the various examination bodies, among others and therefore advised the Marshals and Monitors to be vigilant, agile and resourceful in order to perform their duties effectively. In his speech, the Member representing Ukwuani Local Government in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Paul Okpue implored the Marshals to do their job with all sincerity as that was the only way they would positively contributed their quota towards the total eradication of the monster that had made mockery of our educational system. Also speaking, the Representative of the Chairman of the Post Primary Education Board, Mr. Jerry Eruvbedede advised the Marshals and Monitors to avoid anything that would soil their names. Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Examinations and Standards in the Ministry, Mrs. Rosaline Edobor said that the consequencies of examination malpractice were too grave to be ignored as it was responsible for the high rate of juvenile delinquencies, cultism, sexual promiscuity, among so many others stressing that the implication of this on the society would be too grave to comprehend. She therefore advised the Marshals not to be scared by threats by desperate candidates who lacked interest in reading and learning but crave for acquisition of certificates at all cost. Officials from WAEC.NECO JAMB and other examination bodies were present at the briefing. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 24TH APRIL, 2006 |
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The State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu last Saturday monitored the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board examination in various centres across the State. Dr. Ogbuagu first port of call was the JAMB Zonal Office, Asaba from where she moved to Asaba Girls Secondary School, Asaba centre where the State Coordinator of JAMB, Mr. Sunday Aladegbaye told her that the Board had put everything in place to have a successful exercise. At Mary Mount College, Boji, Boji, Owa, Dr. Ogbuagu was impressed with the peaceful conduct of the examination but felt shocked at the Agbor Technical College and the College of Education, Agbor centres where 30 and 35 candidates respectively wrote the examination instead of 540 candidates each expected in the centres. The Commissioner was also at St. George's College, Obinomba where she directed the security personnel to chase away all the touts found in the school compound. At Esume-Ukuru Primary School, Obiaruku, one Cyril Obayan was caught insidee the hall writing for a female candidate, Miss. Sandra Otitigbe Ovie was caught with prepared answer sheet and both were handed over to the police at Obiaruku At Abraka, an undergraduate of Delta State University, Mr. Moses Ajenotsemi was caught with already prepared answer sheet who on sighting the commissioner took to his heels but caught and handed over to the police. Speaking to pressmen at the end of the monitoring, Dr. Ogbuagu called on everybody to support the fight against examination malpractice in order to eliminate it as evidence from the monitoring showed that many people were still bent in perpetuating examination fraud. She commended the State Commissioner of Police and the State Director of the State Security Services for their full cooperation by providing security personnel that manned the various centres. The Special Assistant I to the Commissioner, Dr. Hope Oniyama and other officials from the Ministry were with the ommissioner during the monitoring exercise. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 20TH APRIL, 2006 |
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Teachers selected to generate test items for the 2006 promotion examination in government owned secondary schools in the State have been advised to be transparent in carrying out the assignment. This advise was given yesterday in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the opening ceremony of the workshop on the generation of test items for the 2006 promotion examination. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that the essence of the workshop was to remove all forms of subjectivity in the generation of test items through the restoration of objectivity in order to ensure the promotion of candidates that would be confident enough to face the challenges of external examinations. She equally stated that the generation of credible test items for promotion examination would also enrich people's lives, enhance their productivity and lay the foundation for long term economic growth. The Commissioner therefore advised the workshop participants not to compromise standards nor loose sight of the ethics, integrity and credibility associated with the workshop. Dr. Ogbuagu once more used the occasion to call on teachers and other stake-holders in the education industry to give their maximum support in the crusade against examination malpractice in all its ramifications. Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Examinations and Standards in the Ministry, Mrs. Rosaline Edobor: stated that examinations still remained the most dominant, feasible and reliable instruments used in the assessment of students. Mrs. Edobor stated that in order to achieve this, teachers with tested and proven competence and experience in different subject areas were brought together to rub minds on better ways of evaluating the students for placement into the next class. She also said that each participant was required to generate eighty multiple choice questions, fifteen essay type and five practical questions in practically oriented subject areas and therefore called on them to give out their best in order to justify their selections for the workshop. The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Benjamin Umuze, the Special Assistant I to the Commissioner, Dr. Hope Oniyama, Directors and the Chief Inspectors of Education in the local Government areas attended the opening ceremony. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Eduacation |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 11TH APRIL, 2006 |
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The Local Education Secretaries in the 25 Local Government Areas of the State have been requested to forward the lists of all Primary School Teachers with first degree and above to the Chairman of the State Primary Education Board (SPEB) immediately. In a Government Special Announcement issued today in Asaba by the Permanent Secretary, Primary and Secondary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Benjamin Umuze stated that the lists should also contain the teacher's year of graduation, area of specialization, rank, salary grade level and date of first appointment and to reach the Chairman not later than Wednesday, 12th April, 2006 unfailingly. Mr. Umuze who is the Chairman of the UBE Implementation Committee in the State stated that the information were required following the passage of the Universal Basic Education Bill by the State House of Assembly due for implementation in the State. He therefore directed the Local Education Secretaries to treat the matter with utmost urgency as the Ministry would not tolerate any lapses from any of them Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 7TH APRIL, 2006 |
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The students of Illah Grammar School, Illah in Oshimili North Local Government Area have been warned against the harassment of the Principal and teachers in the school as the Ministry of Education will not hesitate to close it down if the harassment continues. This warning was given today in Illah by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu when she paid an unscheduled visit to the school to get first hand information on the incessant harassment and intimidation of staff of the school by the students and their relations. Dr. Ogbaugu stated that it was the height of irresponsibility for students for harass teachers, beat up school prefects and threaten the life of their Principal with impunity. She said that the Ministry would not fold its arms and allow students to behave like animals stressing that the Ministry would close down indefinitely any school with unruly students and therefore advised them to change in their own interest. The Commissioner equally advised them to reach out to their friends and relations who had been in league with them to stay away from the school and stop the attack on the teachers as the Ministry had already contracted law enforcement agents to deal severely with any of them caught. Speaking on behalf of the students, the Senior Prefect of the School, Master Peter Nwaokolobia thanked the Commissioner for the visit and promised that the students would from today turn a new leaf. Dr. Ogbuagu directed the Principal to make sure that the school compound was cleared of weeds within three days as she would visit the school again. She also directed that four teachers that were absent in school without permission should be queried and forfeit two weeks salary. The Commissioner later visited the Police Station in the town where she implored the officers and men to seriously investigate the threat on the life of the Principal and arrest an prosecute the culprits. In another development, the State Ministry of Education has announced Friday, 7th April, 2006 as the commencement date for the second term/Easter holidays. In a statement issued today in Asaba by the permanent Secretary, Primary and Secondary Education, Mr. Benjamin Umuze advised all heads of primary and post - primary schools to take not of the date and ensure that normal academic activities for the second term were brought to a close on that date. He also said that the term would begin on Monday, 1st April, 2006. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 6TH APRIL, 2006 |
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The entrance examination into the 20 Model Secondary Schools in Delta State for the 2006/2007 academic session will take place on Saturday, 13th May, 2006 beginning at 9.00 A.M. prompt. In a statement issued today in Asaba by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education said that the sales of the entrance/registration forms for admission into the schools have commenced. It was also stated that the form which cost one thousand naira (N1000.00) only could be purchased in the Examinations and Standards Department, No. 14 Governor Street, Ministry of Education (Headquarters), Asaba, the offices of the Chief Inspectors of Education in the 25 Local Government Areas in the State, Delta State Liaison Offices in Abuja and Lagos, Ministry of Education (Headquarters), Benin City, Edo State as well as Blessed Nursery/Primary School, Gwagwa, Abuja. Interested candidates were therefore advised to complete the forms and return same at the point of collection on or before 5th May, 2006 as there would be no sales of forms on examination day. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 4TH APRIL, 2006 |
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Science teachers have been asked to break new grounds, invent and produce new things that will satisfy the needs of the learning population. This appeal was made yesterday at Asaba by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the opening ceremony of the Nigeria-UNESCO training workshop on the use of science kits for primary school science teachers in the South-South Geo-political Zone. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that such challenge would help the pupils to develop keen interests in the study of science subjects and eventually excel in them. She noted that the workshop was a part of the Nigeria-UNESCO Project geared towards the improvement of Science and Technology Education in the country and therefore advised the participants to take the workshop seriously as that was the only way they could justify their selection to attend the workshop. The Commissioner commended the President, Chief Olusesun Obasanio for his initiative to develop science and technology education through this laudable project with a view of ensuring that the basic scientific skills and knowledge were acquired by the youths early in life from the primary and secondary school levels. Dr. Ogbuagu however stated that the acquisition of scientific skills by the youths could not be accomplished successfully without the training of the teachers who would impart the knowledge of the use of the science kits to the children and therefore recommended for their training through seminars and workshops. She assured the participants that with the goodwill and financial support of the present government in the State, the Ministry would put the necessary machinery in motion to ensure that the State Government inaugurated the necessary State Project Committees for the effective implementation of the Science and Technology Education Project in due course. In his own speech, the National President of Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN), Dr. MammanWasagu said that there had been a steady decline in the study of science, technology and mathematics education due to a number of factors. Dr. Wasagu whose speech was read by the National Secretary of the Association, Dr. Donatus Igbokwe stated that the factors included the insufficient number of science teachers with the relevant preparations, qualifications and motivations. He said that many teachers at the primary school level were generalist class teachers instead of specialist science or mathematics teac hers stressing that since no teacher could offer what he or she did not know, the subjects could not be taught or neglected thereby making the child develop hatred for science and mathematics. Earlier in his welcome speech, the Provost of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, Dr. Gabriel Iloh advocated the teaching of science subjects with local materials which the pupils could feel and see thereby practicalising the subjects. He equally called for the intensive teaching of Mathematics as not much could be learnt in the sciences without adequate training in Mathematics. Participants were drawn from the six States in the South-South Zone with resource persons from UNESCO, STAN and National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 31ST MARCH, 2006 |
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7.640 students out of 19.638 promoted to SS III in the 2005/2006 academic session in public schools in Delta State drifted to other States to enroll for the WAEC and NECO Senior School Certificate Examinations. This figure was given yesterday in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu when she received in audience the State Coordinator of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in her office. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that the massive drift of the students to other States was due to the total war being waged by the Ministry against examination malpractice in all its ramifications stressing that the Ministry would not be deterred until the battle was won She called on parents and guardians to be conscious of the dangers their children and wards were exposing themselves to in the name of passing the examinations at all costs only to come back to their former schools to receive lessons. The Commissioner stated that the Principals of such schools had been directed not to allow such students to come back to their schools for any form of transaction warning that any Principal that flouted the order would be sanctioned. Dr. Ogbuagu commended the management of JAMB for the innovations introduced in the conduct of the forthcoming examination and therefore called on other examination bodies to come out with their own strategies in the fight against examination malpractice. She assured the Coordinator and his team that her Ministry with the full support of the State Government would continue to assist the examination councils in making the State examination friendly. The Commissioner used the occasion to announce her full support of the post- JAMB screening exercise which was one of the ways to check examination malpractice as the candidates were aware that another screening test awaited them after the JAMB examination. Earlier in his address, the State coordinator of JAMB, Mr. Sunday Aladegbaye commended the Commissioner for her dogged fight against examination malpractice whose efforts had been greatly acknowledged by the Head Office of JAMB in Abuja and therefore implored her not to relent. Mr. Aladegbaye said that his organization had introduced new measures during the forthcoming examination among which is the drafting of security officers to all the centres to monitor the examination. He further said that JAMB would equally carry out enlightenment exercises in various parts of the State to sensitize the people against examination fraud with the one for Asaba billed to take place in the palace ground of the Asagba of Asaba who had graciously accepted to participate in the enlightenment rally and therefore called for the support of the Ministry. The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Benjamin Umuze, the Director of Examinations and Standards, Mrs. Rosaline Edobor and other officials of the Ministry were present during the visit. Public Relations Officer. Ministry of Education, Asaba. |
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PRESS
RELEASE OF 22ND MARCH, 2006
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The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu has called on the National Population Commission to provide the enumerators with all the necessary materials that will make the on-going national census exercise succeed. Dr. Ogbuagu made this appeal yesterday Ugbomro in Uvwie Local Government Area after monitoring the commencement of the census exercise in the local government area. She stated that after going round the various centres in the local government area, it was discovered that the exercise could not commence as scheduled due to the absence of some materials such as ink pad, indelible ink, forms 01,06,07 and 07m, folders census bags, aprons, among others. The Commissioner noted that the enthusiasm by the people as a result of the sensitization and mobilization exercise carried out by the community leaders should not be allowed to wane and therefore implored the Commission to come to the aid of the officers with the necessary materials for a successful head count. Dr. Ogbuagu equally to commended the Chairman and the staff of the Uvwie Local Government Council for their support and assistance to the Census of officials, the Uvwie traditional council as well as the community leaders for a job well done. She however appealed to the people not to be daunted but remain patient as every body would be counted before the end of the exercise. Also speaking, the Vice-Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Area, Hon. Alexander Amudo called on the Commission to post more enumerators to the local government area as the number presently engaged would not be able to cope with the large population. In his own remark, the Usiewo of Alegbo, Chief Ogan Ogavah assured the enumerators of the cooperation of his people stressing that they would do everything to make their work easy. He advised his people to remain indoors as that was the only way they could be counted. Dr. Ogbuagu in company of the President of Uvwie General Improvement Union, Mr. Tuesday Onoge visited the enumeration centres at Uvwie Community Hall, Effurun, Alegbo Primary School, Our Lady's High School, Eyabugbe Primary School, Ekpan Town Hall and Ugbomro Primary School, Ugbomro. Public Relations Officer Ministry of Education |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 1ST MARCH, 2006 |
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The State Governor, Chief James Ibori has approved the sum of ninety one millon, three hundred and sixty five thousand, one hundred and sixty eight naira and forty four kobo (N91,365,168.44) for the renovation and upgrading of existing infrastructures, construction of new buildings and the provisions of other amenities for the Command Secondary School, Mbiri in Ika North East Local Government Area. The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu when she paid an unscheduled visit to the school recently, disclosed this. Dr. Ogbuagu in company of some top officials of the Ministry said that the money would be used to install a step down transformer, a new water project, 150 two seater desks, to equip a temporary technical workshop, to furnish the commandant and Matron's office, purchase of 3 brand new vehicles. Toilet facilities dinning hall, a block of six classrooms. Installation of a 150 KVA standing generator, office equipment among others. She directed all the contractors who were contracted to execute the jobs to make sure that they completed their jobs without further delay warning that the Ministry would not take kindly to any of them that failed to complete their job on time and according to specifications. The Commissioner advised the Commandant and the staff not to accept any shoddy job from any contractor saying that any job not done to the required standard should be reported to the Ministry immediately. Dr. Ogbuagu appealed to the school authority to be patient as the State Government was determined to provide the necessary infrastructures that would make the school one of the best command schools in the country. She equally admonished the teachers to dress properly to school in order to attract the respect of their students and the host community. In his own speech, the commandant of the College, Major Tunde Awe commended the efforts of the State Government in the provisions of amenities to the school so far and prayed that the Ministry should prevail on the contractors to mobilize to site and complete the jobs without delay. He assured the Commissioner that the school would not accept any item or structure that did not meet the required standard. The Commandant stated that the students had fully adjusted to the new environment but would be in happier if all the State Government promised the school would be in place Signed: PRO(Education) |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 28TH FEBRUARY, 2006 |
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The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu has called on parents to buy textbooks and writing materials for their children in order to lessen the problems of teachers in the classrooms. Dr. Ogbuagu made this appeal yesterday in Asaba during the opening ceremony of a two day workshop on contemporary methods for teaching English Language in primary schools in the State. She said that textbooks greatly complemented the efforts of teachers in their teachings and where these were lacking not much would be achieved and therefore implored them to assist their children with the relevant textbooks. The Commissioner further stated that research findings had shown that the reading skills of most primary school graduates were poor due to reading habits of majority of adults in Nigeria which their children erroneously copied, non-purchase of recommended textbooks as well as the use of ineffective teaching methods by many teachers. Dr. Ogbuagu equally said that reading skill was very important for children as they could not get far in their academic pursuits without it and therefore recommended the reading of decent novel, newspapers and magazines in order to increase their vocabulary and keep abreast of developments around them. She announced that henceforth "Queens Primer" is now compulsory m primary schools, particularly in the lower classes as well as the use of "Brighter Grammar", the dictionary, the teaching of rhymes, story telling and the reintroduction of Literature in English in the primary schools with a list of recommended textbooks. The Commissioner use the occasion to call on teachers to show more commitments to their primary assignment of teaching as that was the only way they could justify their professional calling. Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Schools in the Ministry, Dr. Maureen Obi Adakpo said that a quick examination of pupils in primary schools in their understanding and application of the English Language as a medium of learning and communication showed that there was lack of understanding of the language thereby being unable to use it in other school subjects. She also said that it had equally been observed that many teachers in the primary schools had not had any opportunity of undergoing refresher courses after leaving their respective teacher training colleges and this had greatly hampered their teaching skills The Director stated that the essence of the workshop was to refresh the memories of the teachers and expose them to modem trends in the teaching of the subject and therefore advised them to take the workshop seriously in order to justify the huge amount of money spent in organizing it. Dr. Ogbuagu was also at Agbor to declare open a similar workshop for English Language teachers in Ika North East, Ika South and Ukwuani Local Government Areas. The two Special Assistant to the Commissioner, Dr. Hope Oniyama and Mr. Robert Scot-Emuakpor as well as Directors in the Ministry were present at the ceremonies. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 22TH FEBRUARY, 2006 |
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Proper continuous assessment for pupils and teachers in schools has been described as a panacea for curbing examination malpractices in the school system. This assertion was made today in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the opening ceremony of a one-week workshop on continuous assessment for Head teachers of public and private primary schools in the State. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that continuous assessment if folly implemented in the schools would encourage pupils and students to develop good study habits. She noted that pupils consistently work hard when they realized that they were being continuously assessed in terms of regular testing and observation thereby encouraging all round development instead of the one time exanimation as being practiced in the schools presently. The Commissioner further stated that continuous assessment also afforded the teachers the opportunity to be directly involved in the final certification of the pupils as it would reduce the bias of students towards examination and the tension generated during such examinations. Dr. Ogbuagu also said that with launching of the Universal Basic Education scheme which emphasized certification based purely on continuous assessment of the child and therefore called on the teachers to have their assessments based on the three domains of cognitive, affective and psychomotor. She assured the teachers that the Ministry would organize periodic and consistent workshops for them in order to inculcate in them the best practices in continuous assessment who in turn would train their colleagues not privileged to attend the workshop. The Commissioner used the occasion to thank the State Governor, Chief James Ibori for his support in the crusade for a better educational system in the State. Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Examination and Standards in the Ministry, Mrs. Rosaline Edobor said that continuous assessment was introduced to check the problems cremated by the formal one - and for - all terminal examinations. She said the continuous assessment was charactized by its being systematic, comprehensive, and cumulative and guidance oriented and expected to be a stabilizer to the single terminal examination that in the end would reduces the incidence of examination malpractice. The Director stated the workshop was geared towards the renewal of the knowledge of the teachers who in the near future would reflect and affect the actual behaviour of the child and therefore called on the participants to take the exercise serious in order to justify the huge amount spent in organizing it. The Permanent Secretary, Primary and Secondary Education, Mr. Benjamin Umuze, Directors and Chief Inspectors of Education attended the opening ceremony. Dr. Ogbuagu was also at Agbor to declare open similar workshop for participants from Ika North East, Ika South arid Ukwuani Local Government Areas. Public Relations Officer, |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 22TH FEBRUARY, 2006 |
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The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ogbuagu today carried her crusade against cultism in secondary schools to Effurun in Uvwie Local Government Area. Dr. Ogbuagu state that cultism in secondary schools had become worrisome to the Government and if not checked now would not only spell down to the children but to the entire nation. She therefore called on parents and school authorities to come out in full force and fight this canker-worm before the society was destroyed by the acts of the cultists. The Commissioner stated that records have it that the cultists destroy school property, main their school mates and teachers and even in some instances kill innocent people for no just cause stressing that anybody engaged in such unholy acts would never go unpunished in the long run. Dr. Ogbuagu further said that the Ministry had already compiled the names of all suspected cultists and forwarded same to law enforcement agencies including the State Security Services for investigation and monitoring stating that proven cases would be taken to the Tribunal sitting in Enugu for prosecution. She stated that no responsible Government would fold its arm and allow such disgruntled elements to create problems for innocent people in the society. The Commissioner used the occasion to warn students who traveled out of the State to register for public examinations in other States in order to cheat during such examinations should have a rethink as the Ministry would soon publish their names in daily newspapers. Dr Ogbuagu therefore called those of them who after registering in such schools still came back to their former schools to receive lessons directing such Principals not to allow them to enter their schools for whatever reason. In his own speech, the Regent of Uvwie Kingdom, High Chief Atuyota Egere commended the Commissioner for organizing the sensitization talk as it came at the right time especially now that the behaviour of many youths had been of great concern to the elders. He called on her not to relent until the battle was non stressing that they would continue to pray for her success in the crusade against all vices in the school system. Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief Inspector of Education, Uvwie Local Government Area, Mr. Michael Aziza said that is office had already compiled the names of suspected cultists in schools in the Local Government Area and forwarded same to the Ministry for necessary action. He thanked the Commissioner for her crusade and prayed God to assist her in the struggle for a better school system in the State. Two Reverend Gentleman, Rev. Canon Josiah Nsaka and Rev. Father Mary Ebge both of Ministry of Education, Asaba delivered goodwill messages on moral and ethical behaviour to the students. The Regent of Uvwie Kingdom, High Chief Atuyota Egere and other Chief from the Kingdom graced the ceremony. Public Relations Office |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 14TH FEBRUARY, 2006 |
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Parents have been called upon to assist school authorities to fight against cultism and other vices that have plagued the school system This advise was given yesterday in Warri by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during a sensitization interactive session on the evils of cultism among students' of secondary schools in Warri South Local Government Area . Dr. Ogbuagu stated that cultism among students had done incalculable harm to the growth and development a good number of students warning that if no meaningful efforts were made to curtail the vice, the future of the children would be in Jeopardy. She said that the Ministry would do everything within its power to wipe the scourge from the school system and therefore pleaded with parents and other stakeholders in the education industry to join in the crusade. The Commissioner noted that the problem of cultism in the school could be attributed to lack of parental care where in pursuit of material wealth abandoned their children to fate and Principals that admitted students without knowing their background. Dr. Ogbuagu farther stated that the Ministry would not fold its hands and allow the future of the children entrusted into their care to be destroyed warning that the Ministry would henceforth descend heavily on students and their sponsors. She said that the State Security Services (SS) had been folly briefed about the activities of cultists in some schools warning that whoever that was caught would be taken to the special Tribunal at Enugu where the penalty for offenders was long term of imprisonment. The commissioner therefore called on students to face their studies as that was the only way they could become useful to themselves, their parents and the nation. Earlier in his welcome address, the Acting Chief Inspector of Education in Warri South Local Government Area, Mr Jude Ekpah thanked the Commissioner for embarking on the sensitization exercise as that was one of the ways to eliminate the problem from the school system. He called for punitive actions against the cultist as a way to serve as deterrent to others. In their separate contributions during the session, some of the students called on the Ministry to provide the schools with good learning environment such as the provision of qualified teachers good classrooms, well fenced school premises, among others stressing that such facilities would prevent them from playing pranks. The Provost, College of Education Warri, Professor Igho Joe, the Special Assistant to the Commissioner, Dr. Hope Oniyama, Directors and parents of students were present during the interactive session. Public Relations officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 9TH FEBRUARY, 2006 |
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The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu has called on School Authorities and Community Leaders to show interest in government projects going on in their schools in order to avoid sub-standard jobs by contractors Ogbuagu gave this advise yesterday in Kpakiama in Bomadi Local Government Area when she paid an unscheduled visit to the school in continuation of her visits to government owned schools across the State. She stated that if proper monitoring had taken place during the construction of the classrooms, the defects in the building presently would have been detected and corrected. The Commissioner therefore appealed to the staff of the Ministry of Housing and the Department of Planning in her Ministry to have the fear of God in carrying out their duties as posterity would judge anybody who failed to do his or her job conscientiously. At James Welch Grammar School, Emevor in Isoko North Local Government Area, Dr. Ogbuagu directed that the 50 three seater desks sent to the school be rejected and the contractor who supplied them should be made to remove them from the school without ftirther delay for not meeting the required standard. At the Utagba-Ogbe Technical College, Kwale, the Commissioner advised the Principal to liaise with the community to provide adequate security to the school's equipment as the Government would not replace stolen items from any school. Dr. Ogbuagu had earlier visited Obetim-Uno Secondary Commercial School, Obetim- Uno in Ndokwa East Local Government Area where she commended the Principal, Mr Sunday Eghaghe for teaching the students outside his official duties and called on other Principals to emulate such worthy example. At the Ogor Technical College, Otor-Ogor in Ughelli North Local Government Area, the Commissioner directed that three teachers in the college, Mr. K Obahor, Mrs. M. Ayeni and Mrs. F.N. Ajaino should be quarried and forfeit two weeks salary for absenting themselves from school without permission from the Principal. Other schools visited included Aradhe Grammar School, Aradhe in Isoko North Local Government Area and Esenaebe College, Bomadi in Bomadi Local Government Area. The Director of Inspectorate, Mrs. Julie Young and other officials from the Ministry accompanied the Commissioner on the tour. Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, |
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PRESS
RELEASE OF 6TH FEBRUARY, 2006
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The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu has constituted a task force to monitor and assess the compliance of closed down schools in the State. Inaugurating the Committee yesterday in her office. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that the essence of the task force is to visit all the closed down schools that had written to the Ministry seeking approval for re-opening of such schools. She said that some of the affected schools on their own had re-opening without the approval of the Ministry warning such school owners to follow laid down rules as the Ministry was determined to deal severely with anybody that flouted is orders. The Commissioner therefore advised the Chairperson and members of the Task Force to do their ]ob diligently without fear or favour stressing that their selection was purely on merit and should therefore not betray the confidence reposed in them. Dr. Ogbuasu used the occasion to call on the Chief Insnectors of Education in the various local government areas to intensify their efforts in monitoring schools in their areas of jurisdiction warning that the Ministry would not take kindly to any of them found cording with school owners to flout government directive. Responding on behalf
of members of the Task Force, the Chairperson, Mrs- Julie Akinmoyewa
thanked the Commissioner for the opportunity given to her and the members
to contribute their quota towards a better educational system in the
State. Others members of
the Task Force include Ms. Pattie Ajufor, Mr. Joseph Edafeghwara, Mr.
Dennis Medi and Mr. Kelly Kentoa who will serve as Secretary.The Permanent
Secretary, Primary and Secondary Education, Mr. Benjamin Umuze Public Relation Officer, Ministry of Education |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 3RD FEBRUARY, 2006 |
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The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu has constituted a task force to monitor and assess the compliance of closed down schools in the State. Inaugurating the Committee yesterday in her office. Dr. Ogbuagu stated that the essence of the task force is to visit all the closed down schools that had written to the Ministry seeking approval for re-opening of such schools. She said that some of the affected schools on their own had re-opening without the approval of the Ministry warning such school owners to follow laid down rules as the Ministry was determined to deal severely with anybody that flouted is orders. The Commissioner therefore advised the Chairperson and members of the Task Force to do their ]ob diligently without fear or favour stressing that their selection was purely on merit and should therefore not betray the confidence reposed in them. Dr. Ogbuasu used
the occasion to call on the Chief Insnectors of Education in the various
local government areas to intensify their efforts in monitoring schools
in their areas of jurisdiction warning that the Ministry would not take
kindly to any of them found Responding on behalf
of members of the Task Force, the Chairperson, Mrs- Julie Akinmoyewa
thanked the Commissioner for the opportunity given to her and the members
to contribute their quota towards a better educational system in the
State. Others members of
the Task Force include Ms. Pattie Ajufor, Mr. Joseph Edafeghwara, Mr.
Dennis Medi and Mr. Kelly Kentoa who will serve as Secretary.The Permanent
Secretary, Primary and Secondary Education, Mr. Benjamin Umuze Public Relation Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 1ST FEBURARY, 2006 |
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The State Government will continue to give full support to the establishment of private educational institutions in order to complement the efforts of the State Government. This assurance was given yesterday in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu when she received the Principal Officers of Novena University, Ogume in Ndokwa West Local Government Area. Dr. Ogbuagu who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Higher Education, Barrister Andrew Elueche stated that education being the most effective medium for social transformation of any society should be made available to the generality of the citizenry. She
said that in recognition of this philosophy, the state Government established
four tertiary institutions made up of three The commissioner therefore charged the authorities of the University to put the institution on a high academic pedestal through good quality staff and students. Dr.
Ogbuagu equally called on the University to guide against the ills in
the educational system such as cultism and examination While congratulating the Pro-chancellor, Mr. Chuks Ochonogor for the achievement, she implored the University authority to administer the institution in accordance with laid down rules and regulations guiding all educational institutions in the State. Earlier in his speech, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor William Aderounmu said that the team came to formally inform the Ministry of its existence after receiving its licence of approval from the National University Commission. Professor Aderounmu stated that being the first private University in Delta State, the University authority would do its best to put it in a position where it would compete favourably with existing Universities in the country and beyond. He also said that the National University Commission approved seven colleges but had decided to begin with three colleges made up of 16 Departments offering twenty three courses one of which is Security and Intelligence Studies, the first of its kind in any University in West Africa. The Vice-Chancellor further stated that the University had reserved one seat in the University Council for the Ministry of Education and sued for the cooperation of the Ministry in its activities. The Registrar, Mr. Goddy Olie accompanied the Vice-Chancellor on the visit while on the Ministry's side were Directors and other officials. Public
relations Officer, |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 21ST DECEMBER, 2005 |
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The State former Commissioner for education. Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu yesterday celebrated the Christmas with the inmates of the Pro Lahore Dei Orphanage Home, Asaba. Dr. Ogbuagu in company of the Executive Chairman of the Post Primary Education Board, Mrs. Irene Imilar and other well wishers thrilled the inmates with music and food. Speaking during the occasion, the former Commissioner appealed to spirited individuals and organizations to spare some moments during the yuletide to celebrate with the less privileged in the society so that they could feel sense of belonging. She frowned seriously on wealthy individuals who instead of using their wealth to assist the down trodden used such resources for mundane things praying that such people should have a change of heart. Dr. Ogbuagu commended the members of Pro Lahore Dei and the management of the orphanage for their spirited disposition towards the alleviation of the problems of the inmates and urged them to continue in that spirit. She implored the management of the home to thoroughly screen new entrants to the home as records had it that some of the children in the place were dumped there by some parents who were not ready to bear the brunt of rearing their young ones especially those without mothers, stating that such unfortunate children should be catered for by their fathers and relations. Presenting the food items and toiletries on behalf of the former Commissioner, the executive Chairman of the Post Primary Education Board, Mrs. Irene Imilar advised the Management of the home to make judicious use of the items in order to attract more donations in the future. Responding on behalf of the members of Pro Lahore Dei Mrs. Rose Obanya thanked Mrs. Ogbuagu for her continuous kindness to the inmates of the home assuring her that they would use the items for the well being of the inmates. The items donated include six bags of rice, one big bag of beans, cartons of beverages and toiletries and a sum of N58.000.00 cash and another N20.000.00 from Mrs, Imilar. The highlights of the occasion were dancing and cutting of the Christmas cake with the inmates of the home by Dr. Ogbuagu and well- wishers. Public Relations Officer Ministry of Education Asaba |
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PRESS RELEASE OF 8TH DECEMBER, 2005 |
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Dr Mrs V E Ogbuagu bags Exam Ethics 2005 Award In activities climaxing the 2005 Examination Ethics retreat in Abuja which took place at the prestigious Bolingo Hotels between December 5 and 8 2005 was an award night to honour those that have confronted examination malpractice, the ogre that have continually diluted the standards and quality of education over the ears in the various states of the federation. Prior to the award night was a three days brain-storming session were the Honourable Commissioner for Education for Delta State, Dr. (Mrs) Veronica E. Ogbuagu in a paper titled: Curbing Examination Malpractice in Delta State, Policies, Programmes and Strategies. Journeying the audience who were held in rapt attention on how she was able to tame examination malpractice in Delta State, where the vice was before her commixing spreading unfettered and was being elevated to the norm rather than the exception. She held them spellbound all through the thirty minutes the lecture lasted on "what the Ministry of Education in Delta State had done and how it had done it well", which she closely dovetailed with "where do we go from here?^. She spoke passionately on the need for co-operation from all stakeholders to join forces and decimate the social various. At the end of the presentation, participants were left with no doubt that Delta State was the only state in the federation that had gone the extra mile to put certain measures viz; Examination Marshals, Capacity Building, Recognition of Persons/ Crusaders against examination malpractice, effective monitory of all examinations conducted or supervised in the state, relocating schools notorious for examination malpractice to neutral centers to write their examinations, production of pamphlets containing prayers and songs for both morning and afternoon devotions in schools to improve the moral tone of both students and staff, closure of 370 illegal and ramshackled schools that serve as "miracle centers,'' reinvigorating Guardian and Counseling Services for children and adolescents and organized a comprehensive workshop on effective study habits for students in all secondary schools in the state. These fit may look simple on paper but are quite enormous. They are brain tasking as well as economically demanding. However, with the unalloyed support of the Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, members of the state executive council. House of Assembly members and the dedicated staff of the Ministry as well as the co-operation enjoyed from the examining bodies, the obvious success was achieved. The retreat participants who equally were shown a documentary of the monitoring exercise iced the place of Delta State as the number one exam ethics complaint state in the federation. At the retreat crescendo that was graced by other Awardees among whom is the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Alhaji Buka Abba Ibrahim. The Special Assistant to the President on National Orientation, Erelu Bose Ogunmuyinwa, the now Late Education Commissioner for Rivers State, Prof. Thompson Okujagu .Distinguished Senators, House of Reps members who were entertained by a live band and wonderful cuisines that Dr. Mrs. Veronica Ogbuagu who equally represented the state Governor who came first as the exam ethics friendly Governor in the south -south geopolitical zone back to back for the second time running, while her humble self was given 2005 exam ethics Education Commissioner Role Model Award for Exemplary Performance in Championing Exam Ethics Campaign. On the 8th of Dec. 2005. The Paper is attached for your perusal, Public Relations Officer Ministry of Education Asaba |
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PRESS
RELEASE OF 17TH NOVEMBER,
2005 .
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An appeal has gone to all teachers to be good guides and learning coaches in order to produce expert learners. This appeal was made yesterday in Sapele by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the opening ceremony of a one day workshop on building high performance among teachers in government owned primary and secondary schools in Sapele Local Government Area organized by the office of the Chief Inspector of Education in conjunction with Destiny Resource Foundation, a non governmental organization based in Sapele. Dr. Ogbuagu who was represented by her Special Assistant I, Dr. Hope Oniyama stated that it was the duty of the teacher to train and provide the society with individuals who would be able to make new inventions and discoveries and initiate changes in the society. She said that teachers were very important in the school system and therefore very indispensable in the child's upbringing stressing that teachers should always do their best to bring up youths that would be well equipped to face future challenges on their own. The Commissioner stated that the workshop was very timely as it had to do with the enhancement of teacher performance which had been the concern of the Ministry as evidenced by all the seminars/workshops so far organized for teachers in the State. Dr. Ogbuagu also stated that the society today needed teachers who were ready to learn, highly committed and dedicated to their jobs as this was the only way to provide opportunities for children to learn, think and discover themselves. While commending the Chief Inspector of Education and Destiny Resource Foundation for their foresight in organizing the workshop, she implored other Chief Inspectors of Education to emulate the example. Earlier in her welcome address, the Chief Inspector of Education in Sapele Local Government Area, Mrs. Henrietta Alonu said that her office embarked on the workshop based on their observations during school inspections where it was discovered that many teachers were no longer reading to upgrade their knowledge on the job. Mrs. Alonu said that the workshop was therefore put in place to re-awaken the consciousness for excellence in the teachers, to enhance their commitment to work as well as enhance positive attitude to work. She commended the All Nigeria. Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and the Conference of Primary Schools Heads of Nigeria (COPSHON) in the Local Government Area for their assistance in providing the meals for the participants as well as Destiny Resource Foundation for their support in organizing the workshop. In a lecture on the "Role of Teachers in Child Training and Development", Dr. Ogbuagu whose speech was delivered by Dr. Oniyama said that a good teacher must be a well educated person who is more than a narrow academic specialist. Public Relations Officer Ministry of Education Asaba |
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PRESS
RELEASE OF 14TH NOVEMBER,
2005 .
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The State Ministry of Education will continue the fight against all forms of examination malpractice in the school system until it is totally wiped out. This assurance was given today in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu during the opening ceremony of a 6 day workshop on the generation oftest items for the 2006 Junior School Certificate Examination. Dr. Ogbuagu who was represented by the Director of Higher Education in the ministry, Mrs Ngozi Ndinwa stated that the quest for certificates without the necessary hard work had been identified as one of the factors that had contributed to examination malpractice. She said that no responsible government would fold its arms and allow this dangerous trend to continue without a strong fight to eliminate it from the school system and save the youths from self inflicted problems. The Commissioner noted that the workshop would assist the Ministry in coming out with standard and reliable test items that would stand the test for time stressing that there should be no compromising of standards or losing sight of the ethics, integrity and credibility associated with an exercise of this nature. Dr. Ogbuagu further stated that the workshop would equally enable the Ministry to evaluate the past questions with a view to generating more valid and reliable test items for the Junior School Certificates examination and therefore called on the participants to see their selection as an opportunity to contribute their quota towards the total elimination of all vestiges of examination malpractice. She also called on the teachers to show serious dedication and commitment to their duties devoid of sentiments, either in the setting of test items, supervision of examinations and marking of answer scripts. Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Examinations and Standards in the Ministry, Mrs. Rosaline Edobor stated that any test instruments to be generated for assessing candidates in the Junior School Certificate Examination must cover the three main domains of cognitive, psychomotor and affective and must be valid, reliabte and usable. Mrs Edobor noted that in order to maintain standards, care must be taken to ensure that the test items were faultless, objective and comprehensive which should equally cover the scheme of work for the three classes of the junior secondary school. She further said that each participant was expected to generate eighty multiple choice questions, fifteen essay type and five practical questions in practically oriented subject areas. Participants were drawn from the various secondary schools across the state Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Education, Asaba |
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PRESS
RELEASE OF 4TH NOVEMBER,
2005 .
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The former Provost of College of Education, Warri; Late Professor Alfred Unomah has been described as an accomplished academician and administrator who left his mark in the academic world. This remark was made at Agbor by the State Governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori when he paid a condolence visit to the wife and family of Late Professor Unomah who died with his only son. Barrister Emeka Unomah in fatal motor-accident along AbuJa-Lokoja road recently. Chief Ibori who was represented by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu stated that the Late Professor Alfred Unomah as the Provost of College of Education, Warri brought rapid development and growth to the College. He stated that the history of the College could not be completed without mentioning the giant roles played by the Late Professor in the movement of the College to its present site. The Governor equally highlighted the development consciousness of Late Professor Unomah towards the development of his Igbodo community in particular and the entire State in general. Chief Ibori on behalf of himself, his family and the entire State Government expressed heart felt condolences to the family and especially to the widow for the double loss of her husband and son and prayed the Almighty God to grant their souls eternal rest. Responding on behalf of the family, the immediate junior brother to the Late Professor, Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Unomah thanked the State Governor for its concern over the double tragedy that befell his family. Dr. Unomah stated that the visit had given them hope that the State government cared for the citizenery and promised to inform the Government on the burial arrangements The Permanent Secretary, Higher Education, Barrister Andrew Elueche, the Special Assistant I to the Commissioner, Dr. (Mrs) Hope Oniyama, the Director of Higher Education, Mrs Ngozi Ndinwa and the Assistant Director, Schools, Mr. Emmanuel Utebor accompanied the Commissioner on the condolence visit. Signed: Public Relation Officer |