Ebonyi Scraps Examination Fees

The Ebonyi State Government is stopping its payment of fees for the state’s secondary school students in examinations conducted by the National Examinations Council (NECO) and West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

Mr Chike Onwe, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, disclosed this on Saturday in Abakaliki while briefing newsmen on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council (SEC) meeting.

He noted that the scrapping, though regrettable, was aimed at coping with the financial pressure on government in the light of competing developmental priorities.

“Despite this development, the free education policy of the government remains on course to ensure that children and youths in the state have access to quantitative and qualitative education,’’ the commissioner said.  He said the state government also has no plans to inaugurate new schools, as it wants to concentrate on providing adequate facilities and manpower to existing ones.

Onwe disclosed that government also considered the location of the state university’s permanent site, as spacious and conducive for academic purposes.

“Therefore, government has no intention to relocate the university from its present location at Ezzamgbo.

“However, government in this light frowns at the activities of certain elements who encroach on the university’s land. “It has therefore resolved to deal with anyone found perpetrating such act,” he said. The commissioner also disclosed that the government had approved the implementation of a new salary structure for the state College of Education at Ikwo, with effect from October 2011. “This is in line with the government’s promise to ensure that the welfare of workers in the state was uplifted, and to ensure maximum performance.

“Details of the new salary structure would be made public soon, as the government expects the workers to reciprocate

the gesture by being more committed to their duties,” he said. Onwe announced government’s plans to organise a grand civic reception in November 2011 for all the state’s indigenes

appointed into higher positions of authority at the federal level.

“This step is aimed at showing the state’s appreciation to President Goodluck Jonathan, for the opportunities given to Ebonyians to serve the country.

“This will also demonstrate the support and solidarity of the state government and the people to our illustrious sons and daughters, who are our ambassadors at the federal level. “In this regard, an executive council committee headed by the state’s Deputy Governor, Chief Dave Umahi, has been set up to handle preparations for the reception,” he said.