By Anietie Akpan
In a bold step towards improving education in Calabar Municipality, the Chairman of Calabar Municipal Council, Apostle James Anam, has flagged off the first phase of an on the spot needs assessment for 24 Primary Schools in Calabar Municipality.
This was contained in a release dated March 11 by the Chief Press Secretary to the Municipal Council, Oqua Etim.
The initiative, aimed at identifying and addressing pressing needs and challenges in schools, took off on March 10, at three primary schools with key Local Government officials in attendance.
The Chairman was accompanied by the Vice Chairman, Pastor Okon Nyong; the Head of Local Government Affairs, Mrs Ekanem Henshaw; the Director, General Service and Administration, Princess Oma Bassey Edim; the Leader and Deputy Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon Emmanuel Inok Otu and Hon Patricia Imona; the Supervisor for Education, Mr Eta Imona and a host of political appointees.
In his speech, Apostle Anam commended students for their neatness and dedication.
He officially launched the Free Book Project, pledging to provide continuous book donations to pupils throughout his tenure.
In a major boost, the Chairman promised to pay the fees for all Primary six pupils who are qualified for the coming placement examination, ensuring financial barriers do not hinder their transition to secondary school.
The first phase of the initiative kicked off at Government Primary School, Ediba Qua; PCN Primary School, Akim Qua and Government Special Education (Special Needs) School, Ibom Layout.
The Supervisor for Education, Mr Imona in his address, emphasized the Administration’s commitment to ensuring that every child receives quality education.
He announced plans to establish a Task Force to monitor school attendance and pick up children loitering during school hours.
In a welcome address at PCN Primary School, Akim Qua, a Pupil, Miss Honesty Sunday Ephraim, eulogized the Mayor of Calabar for his achievements barely three months since assumption of office.
She was however awarded a scholarship by the Coordinator of Akwa Ibom Community in the Council.
In a brief response, the Mayor of Calabar added a cash donation to the scholarship and applauded the Pupil for fluency and outstanding performance.
The Head teachers at the various schools appreciated the Council Chairman for his thoughtfulness and kind gesture.
They also commended him and the Council for prioritizing education and called for continuous investments in the Sector.
