August 28, 2025 – Abia State has continued to record new progress in the education sector as top officials of the government highlighted fresh initiatives during a radio programme on 99.9 Love FM, Umuahia.
The Director-General of the Abia State Orientation Agency, Ure Abazie, was joined by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Kalu Uchechukwu, and the Director of Mass Literacy, Mrs. Arisa Chinyere, to discuss ongoing developments under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, OFR.
Speaking on the programme, Abazie said, “Governor Otti is an education-friendly leader who firmly believes that education is not a privilege, but a right that every citizen must enjoy.”
She further encouraged residents, particularly adults who missed out on formal schooling, to take advantage of the government’s free Mass Adult Literacy Program. Abazie also appealed to Ndi-Abia to protect public properties, drive safely, and stop acts of vandalism, including the destruction of newly planted trees in urban areas.
During the broadcast, Mrs. Kalu Uchechukwu revealed that the state government is currently training more than 5,000 newly employed teachers.
The induction and training exercise is taking place at the Federal Government Girls College, Umuahia and Abayi Girls School, Aba. According to her, the teachers are undergoing a 12-day intensive programme that will be followed by an examination to test their readiness for classroom delivery.
“To support their participation, each teacher has been given a ₦25,000 transport allowance,” she stated. Uchechukwu also reminded private schools in Abia to complete their registration with the government on or before September 12, 2025.
She explained that the registration drive is aimed at effective planning and not taxation. She added that schools across the state are expected to officially resume on September 22, 2025, with the new teachers posted close to their homes to improve efficiency.
On her part, Mrs. Arisa Chinyere spoke on the Accelerated Basic Education Program, which is designed for learners aged 15 years and above. The programme, which is being executed in partnership with ASUBEB, the Federal Ministry of Education, and UNICEF, is set to begin soon, with facilitators already receiving training.
She noted that Governor Otti has shown strong political will by ensuring that facilitators are paid promptly, unlike in the past when payments were delayed. She urged residents across the 17 local government areas to embrace the Mass Adult Literacy Program, which equips adults with reading, writing, and vocational skills required to thrive in today’s economy.
Chinyere concluded by stressing that Abia is on a path of transformation with education placed at the centre of growth, while calling on Ndi-Abia to spread the word and take full advantage of the opportunities provided.