Imo State Assembly Moves to Shut Down Unapproved Private Schools

The Imo State House of Assembly is taking significant action to shut down unapproved private primary and secondary schools across the state, citing concerns over inadequate curricula, unqualified teachers, and non-conducive learning environments.

This initiative was propelled by a motion from Obinna Egu, the Chairman of the House Committee on Education and representative for Ngor-Okpala Constituency. Egu urged his fellow lawmakers to support this crucial motion to safeguard the educational sector from imminent collapse.

Egu highlighted that many private schools in Imo State fail to meet the standards established by relevant academic authorities, allowing these institutions to operate outside legal frameworks. This lack of regulation has led to questionable practices that diverge from established academic guidelines.

He emphasized that the presence of unapproved private schools, characterized by substandard curricula and unqualified teaching staff, poses a significant threat to the educational future of students. These issues could result in a generation of poorly educated individuals who might later assume critical roles in society.

According to a report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Imo State boasts a remarkable literacy rate of 96.48%, making it the most educated state in Nigeria. Egu insisted that maintaining this academic excellence is paramount and that the state cannot afford to undermine its educational reputation by permitting unapproved schools to operate.

Following extensive discussions, the House resolved to urge the state governor to direct the Ministry of Education to immediately close down all unapproved private primary and secondary schools in Imo State. This decisive action aims to uphold educational standards and ensure a brighter future for the state's youth.