From Victor Akinkuolie, Ado-Ekiti
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In a bid to boost the morale of teachers in public schools in Ekiti state, the Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has approved N200 million as car and housing loans for the teachers.
The Governor also signed an Executive Order banning various fees collected by some principals, headteachers and other school officials in the state.
The governor disclosed that the loans will be disbursed on or before November 15 adding that payment of arrears of salaries owed by the last administration will commence any moment from now.
Speaking after signing the executive order at a ceremony held at the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday, Fayemi said it also provides for free and compulsory education in government owned primary and secondary schools.
The executive order, according to him, makes provisions for stiffer sanctions and penalties for school principals and headteachers extorting pupils and students through illegal fees.
Fayemi explained that the action was taken because of reports that school heads were still collecting fees after his pronouncement banning same last Wednesday during his senatorial town hall meetings.
The governor expressed dismay that some principals and headteachers were still extorting students under the pretext of collecting “voluntary donations.”
Fayemi stressed that the executive order would prevent any of such illegality in schools, eliminate school dropout and as well encourage children enrollment.
He urged parents to report any head of schools who asked their children for money to the Ministry of Education for necessary action against would be culprits.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Princess Adekunbi Obaisi, noted that the executive order would go a long way at strengthening the education policy in the state.
Similarly the Chairman Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Ekiti State chapter, Mr Samuel Olugbesan, thanked the government for the gesture, he described it as a morale booster for the teachers.
He explained that the government initiative marked the beginning of a new dawn in the education sector. The NUT helmsman however reiterated the readiness of teachers in the state to continue to put in their best and ensure that Ekiti State occupy the best position in quality education in Nigeria and beyond.
