The Akwa Ibom State Government has approved the recruitment of 1,000 additional teachers to tackle the shortage currently affecting schools, noting that priority will be given to ICT and computer science graduates in order to strengthen digital education.
The Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Anietie Etuk, PhD, announced this during a press briefing held at the State SUBEB Headquarters in Uyo.
“We do not have enough teachers in our schools. Therefore, we appealed to the Governor, and he has graciously approved the recruitment of 1,000 teachers. We are paying attention to ICT teachers because we already have computer labs that require qualified personnel,” he stated.
He also highlighted disputes between communities and school authorities over school lands, noting that such conflicts are negatively affecting school administration and student enrollment. He urged community leaders and School Management Committees to support, rather than hinder, the smooth operation of schools.
While appreciating the state government’s commitment to education, the education administrator stressed that strong foundational learning remains critical to overall development.
The SUBEB Chairman reaffirmed the board’s commitment to sustaining reforms, assuring that ongoing initiatives will significantly improve the standard of basic education and provide better learning outcomes for pupils across the state.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr. Nsibiet John, commended Governor Umo Eno for prioritizing education, particularly the approval for teacher recruitment.
“The employment of over 1,000 teachers is a major step forward, especially for schools in rural communities, and will go a long way in strengthening basic education delivery,” he said.
He further called for strengthened Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and urged SUBEB to extend intervention efforts to schools facing infrastructure challenges, including QIC Primary School in Eket Local Government Area.
