Okpebholo Vows to Revive Ambrose Alli University, Unveils Major Education Overhaul
…reintroduces Edo languages into school curriculum
The Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo has declared his determination to revive Ambrose Alli University (AAU), with substantial progress already underway to return the institution to its former glory.
The Governor made the disclosure during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Esan Okpa Initiative to Government House in Benin City. The delegation led by its President, Hon. Mathew Egbadon, comprised technocrats, business leaders, and community stakeholders, commended the governor for the remarkable progress made in the short span of his administration.
While speaking at the meeting , Gov. Okpebholo also revealed that his administration had directed the Ministry of Education to intensify school rehabilitation efforts, noting “I have told my Commissioner for Education, we have to provide seats and desks for schools. We will continue massive renovation and fencing, provide boreholes and toilets, and we will start installing solar lights in schools”.
He added that computer training programmes would be introduced in schools, where children can have hands-on experience in computer studies, so they can see and touch technology in real time.
The Governor further revealed his intention to reinculcate Edo languages into the school curriculum across Edo State, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to preserving the State’s cultural heritage and promoting indigenous knowledge.
According to him, “Carity begins at home, therefore we must start from home. We will reintroduce vernacular into our school system. Let every tribe begin to learn and speak their language so that no language goes into extinction.”
While speaking at the meeting, Hon. Mathew Egbadon, underscored the urgent need to protect and advance Esan language and culture, which is now extincting. He added that this will align with the 2022 National Language Policy of the Federal Government, which mandates the use of indigenous or community languages as the primary medium of instruction in the first six years of primary education, describing it as “a natural policy”.
He further appealed for support for independent power generation in Esanland through private investment models, calling for the establishment of agro-based industries and stronger support for security agencies to promote rural development and community safety.
