Anambra State Mandates CCTV Installation in Private Schools Following Child Abuse Incident
Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Education, has issued a directive mandating all private schools across the state to install Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras on their premises. Failure to comply with this directive may result in the closure of non-compliant institutions.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a proactive move to ensure the safety and security of students, the Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Education, has issued a directive mandating all private schools across the state to install Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras on their premises. Failure to comply with this directive may result in the closure of non-compliant institutions.
The order was issued by the state Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, who emphasized the necessity of CCTV surveillance for effective monitoring of activities within school premises. This decision comes in response to a distressing incident reported by a concerned parent involving the alleged physical abuse of a student by a teacher identified as Mrs. Ogidi Oluchukwu.
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According to a press statement released by the ministry's media aide, Nnaemeka Egwuonwu, Prof. Chuma-Udeh declared that the installation of CCTV cameras is now a prerequisite for the approval of any private school operating within Anambra State. The statement further highlighted that the directive was issued following a meeting between the ministry and the management of Living Word Magnet School, Awka, where the aforementioned incident was discussed.
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The Commissioner sternly warned against the use of corporal punishment on students, asserting that any teacher found guilty of such actions would face severe consequences. She emphasized that the welfare and safety of every child are paramount and must be safeguarded by both the school authorities and the state government.
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Furthermore, Prof. Chuma-Udeh reiterated that the state will not tolerate any form of child abuse or neglect, emphasizing that every child within Anambra State is under the protection of the government. Any failure to comply with the directive or any future reports of misconduct will result in decisive action, including the potential closure of non-compliant schools.
This proactive measure underscores the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment for all students across Anambra State, as well as holding educators accountable for their responsibilities towards the children under their care.
