By Chinenye Onwusonye
The Imo State Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary), Professor B.T.O. Ikegwuoha, has presented a comprehensive scorecard of the ministry’s activities, outlining significant reforms and achievements recorded under the administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma.
The presentation, made during a media briefing at the ministry’s headquarters in Owerri, highlighted strategic interventions in teacher recruitment, revenue generation, and regulatory enforcement across the education sector.
According to the Commissioner, a total of 5,770 teachers and 235 non-teaching staff have been recruited to address manpower shortages in public schools. The deployment is structured in a 60/40 ratio between primary and secondary schools, with priority given to critical subject areas such as science, agriculture, and technology.
He explained that the recruitment process included a six-week training programme at the Benjamin Uwajimogu College of Education, while final verification of credentials is ongoing before issuance of employment letters. Teachers are also to be posted within their local government areas where possible.
On revenue, the ministry reported a sharp increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), rising from ₦94.7 million recorded between March 2024 and March 2025 to over ₦501 million within the current review period. The growth is attributed to improved administrative efficiency and digitisation initiatives.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the ministry has intensified its crackdown on illegal private schools operating without approval. Several such schools have been shut down, while others have been directed to regularise their operations. Measures to curb examination malpractice have also been strengthened, contributing to improved academic outcomes and credibility in assessments.
As part of efforts to tackle corruption and extortion, the ministry has introduced public reporting channels, including dedicated phone lines for complaints. The Commissioner noted that illegal levies and unauthorised demands by some school authorities have been prohibited.
In addition, a new textbook policy has been introduced, mandating a four-year usage cycle to reduce the financial burden on parents. The policy also prohibits the inclusion of workbooks in textbooks, a reform that has reportedly gained wider acceptance beyond the state.
The ministry has further digitised examination processes, enabling online access to results and electronic payment for major examinations, including WAEC and NECO, in a move aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector through policies designed to ensure quality, affordability, and sustainability.
