Ebere Uzoukwa, Ph.D
Abia State has embarked on a revolutionary journey to transform its education sector, thanks to Governor Alex Otti’s vision and commitment. The AbiaFirst initiative, launched by the governor, is a comprehensive program aimed at unlocking the potential of Abia pupils and students. This bold step is a testament to the governor’s promise to reposition the educational system in Abia, which had been neglected by the previous administrations.
At the heart of the AbiaFirst initiative is a commitment to providing quality education that prepares students for success in an increasingly competitive world. To achieve this, the government has allocated 20% of the current budget to education, demonstrating its resolve to prioritize the sector. Furthermore, Governor Otti has declared compulsory and free education from primary to junior secondary school, underscoring the importance of education in his administration’s development agenda.
The AbiaFirst initiative is not just about improving school infrastructure; it represents a complete institutional reform. The program focuses on developing school infrastructure, training and retraining teachers on new trends, recruiting quality educators, and upgrading curricula to accommodate emerging knowledge. Additionally, the government is addressing the issue of examination malpractices by promoting diligence and fair competition among students.
To ensure the success of the AbiaFirst initiative, the government has set up a Taskforce to arrest parents or guardians who fail to enroll their children or wards in school. This move demonstrates the administration’s commitment to making education a priority. Moreover, the ongoing recruitment of 5,000 qualified and competent teachers for Abia primary and secondary schools is a testament to the governor’s dedication to adding quality and skills to the education system.
The AbiaFirst initiative has received widespread support from development partners, including UNESCO, the World Bank, and the British Council. These organizations have commended Governor Otti’s efforts to revitalize the education sector and have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting and partnering with the state government. The collaboration with these international organizations is expected to bring about innovative solutions and best practices in education, further enhancing the quality of education in Abia State.
The launch of the AbiaFirst initiative has been hailed as a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards educational excellence. Governor Otti’s commitment to education is evident in the allocation of ₦120 billion for various education projects in the 2025 fiscal year. This investment will enable the rebuilding of over 200 model schools, enhancement of teachers’ welfare, and introduction of new incentives to attract top educators.
The AbiaFirst initiative is also focused on promoting digital learning platforms, wholesome curriculum frameworks, teachers’ professional development, technical and vocational education, monitoring and evaluation systems, and Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) education. These initiatives are designed to prepare Abia pupils and students for success in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.
In addition, the AbiaFirst initiative recognizes the importance of community engagement and participation in the education sector. The government is working closely with stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and community leaders, to ensure that the education system is responsive to the needs of the community. This collaborative approach is expected to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among stakeholders, leading to improved educational outcomes.
The AbiaFirst initiative is a testament to Governor Otti’s vision for a better Abia State, where education is the cornerstone of socioeconomic development. By prioritizing education, the governor is investing in the future of Abia’s young people, empowering them to compete successfully in an increasingly globalized world. As the AbiaFirst initiative continues to gain momentum, it is clear that Abia State is on the path to becoming a leader in educational excellence, thanks to Governor Otti’s unwavering commitment to unlocking the potential of Abia pupils and students.
In conclusion, the AbiaFirst initiative is a bold step towards unlocking the potential of Abia pupils and students. With its focus on quality education, institutional reform, community engagement, and innovative solutions, this program has the potential to transform the education sector in Abia State and prepare its young people for success in an increasingly competitive world. As Governor Otti’s administration continues to prioritize education, Abia State is poised to become a model for educational excellence in Nigeria and beyond.
Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.
