Cross River State Education Sector Poised for Transformation Ahead of 2025/2026 Academic Session

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

In a decisive move to reposition the education sector, the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, convened a comprehensive management and stakeholders’ meeting at the Ministry of Education headquarters in Calabar on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. The session, aimed at introducing a series of strategic initiatives, sets the stage for reforms designed to enhance service delivery and ensure a more sustainable and inclusive education system in the state.

During the meeting, Professor Odey underscored the critical role of commitment, innovation, and robust planning in driving the education sector forward. One of the landmark announcements from the session is the free distribution of students’ certificates following the release of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results. “Upon the release of the examination results, the corresponding performance records will be keyed in, ensuring that all eligible students receive their certificates without delay. This represents one of the new innovations we are introducing to reposition education in our state,” the Commissioner explained.

The initiative, aimed at reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and enhancing accessibility, reflects the Ministry’s commitment to student welfare and timely service delivery. Stakeholders at the meeting lauded the decision, noting that it would alleviate unnecessary financial burdens on families while ensuring that students receive timely recognition for their academic achievements.

Emphasis on Data Accuracy and Planning

Professor Odey further highlighted the indispensable role of reliable data in planning, monitoring, and attracting developmental support. He identified inconsistent and inadequate data collection as a longstanding challenge for the state’s education system. Accordingly, he urged Directors, Zonal Coordinators, PRS officers, Executive Secretaries, and CR-SUBEB personnel to prioritise accurate and accessible data management. This, he stressed, would enhance transparency, improve policy implementation, and attract development partners to support educational initiatives.

Strict Regulatory Compliance and School Oversight

In a bid to enforce accountability and uphold standards, the Commissioner revealed that all unauthorised schools operating in Cross River State would be closed, as approved by the State Executive Council. The decision is part of a broader regulatory framework intended to protect students, ensure quality education, and maintain uniform standards across public and private educational institutions.

Tackling Drug Use and Bullying in Schools

Addressing concerns over the rising incidence of drug use and bullying among pupils and students, Professor Odey called for proactive measures from school authorities. He emphasised the critical importance of protecting the future of young learners and mandated the establishment of Anti-Drug and Anti-Bullying Clubs across all schools in the state. “Close supervision and proactive engagement are essential to prevent such behaviours from gaining traction among our children,” he asserted. Plans were also announced to engage directly with Principals and Head Teachers across the state’s educational zones to reinforce these initiatives.

Fostering Inclusiveness and a Conducive Working Environment

The Commissioner charged management members of the Ministry to cultivate a conducive working environment, champion inclusiveness, and eliminate any form of discrimination. He commended Governor Bassey Otu for laying a strong foundation for the sector and pledged to build upon these achievements. “The future of education in Cross River State depends on how diligently we embrace accurate data management, innovative initiatives, transparent certification, and strict regulatory compliance. Let us all rise and work together to strengthen our education system for the benefit of our children and generations to come,” Professor Odey remarked.

Stakeholders and Attendees

The meeting drew participation from a wide array of education stakeholders, including the Special Adviser on Education to the Governor, Dr Afiong Ugbaja; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Barr. Francis Adebe Oyije; Executive Chairman of CR-SUBEB, Elder Dr Esu E. Esu; Technical Education Board Executive Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Achibong; Coordinating Supervisory Directors; all Executive Secretaries of the 18 Local Government Areas; representatives of ANCOPPS, AOPSHON, SEB, and STEB; as well as all Directors of the Ministry.

The session culminated with the agreement that sweeping reforms and all decisions arrived at by stakeholders would be ratified and approved by the Governor before being formally implemented.

With these measures, Cross River State appears poised for a transformative shift in education, embracing innovation, accountability, and student-focused policies that promise to shape a brighter academic future.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org

Original Source: Augustine Odey