Education Ministry Flags Off Annual School Census in Cross River State.

Education Ministry Flags Off Annual School Census in Cross River State.

The Cross River State Ministry of Education has officially commenced the Annual School Census for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions. This significant event, held at the Ministry of Education headquarters in Calabar, aims to gather crucial data from public, private, and technical schools across the state. The primary objective of this exercise is to support effective planning and decision-making in the education sector, ultimately enhancing the quality of education in Cross River State.

Senator Stephen Odey, the state Commissioner for Education, welcomed stakeholders and expressed his gratitude to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for his unwavering commitment to improving the education system. Odey emphasized that the Annual School Census will play a vital role in strengthening the state’s education system through effective planning and collaboration. He noted that the data gathered will form the basis for future policies and programs, aligning with Governor Otu’s vision for a progressive and inclusive education sector in Cross River State.

The Commissioner highlighted the state government’s efforts to reposition the education sector, citing the funding of West African Examination Council registration fees for 14,804 students who passed their mock exams. This gesture ensures that the costs are fully covered, alleviating a significant burden on the students and their families.

Furthermore, Odey announced the governor’s approval for the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa. The bill establishing the university was signed into law on January 8, 2025, accompanied by the release of a take-off grant. This development is expected to significantly enhance the education landscape in Cross River State.

In addition, Odey noted that all academic results in the state are now digitized and can be accessed globally, making verification and accessibility easier. This move is a significant step towards leveraging technology to improve the education sector.

The Commissioner stressed the importance of accurate data collection during the census, describing it as essential for shaping the future of education in the state. He urged the Nigerian Union of Teachers, ministry directors, and other stakeholders to ensure the process is thorough, transparent, and error-free.

Odey also applauded the contributions of Teckplus Digital Solutions, Future X, National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, and ANCOPPS to the state’s education system. He acknowledged the remarkable progress made in the education sector since he assumed office, expressing his appreciation for the collaborative efforts of stakeholders.

Hon. Mike Egre, the national council member for the South-South zone of the NAPPS, assured stakeholders of the readiness of private schools to participate in the exercise. He emphasized the commitment of private schools to transparent and accurate data collection, urging the prompt distribution of census materials to facilitate a seamless process.

Be reminded that the Annual School Census marks a significant milestone in the efforts to enhance the education sector in Cross River State. The accurate data collected during this exercise will inform future policies and programs, ultimately shaping the future of education in the state.