Ministry of Education, Anambra State

EDUCATION COMMISSIONER INSPECTS AANFE FACILITIES, SEEKS STRONGER SUPPORT FOR ADULT AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION

By Obiageli Nwankwo

The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, has paid an impromptu familiarisation visit to the Anambra State Agency for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (AANFE), Awka, on June 18,to assess its operations and identify areas requiring government intervention.

The Commissioner was received by the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Mrs. Lilian Ezenwaka, who conducted him and his entourage on a tour of the agency's facilities.

During the visit, Dr. Ogugua inspected the Skills Acquisition and Vocational Centre, where trainees showcased a variety of handcrafted products, including beaded turbans, beaded bags and boubou outfits. The Commissioner also observed other vocational activities of the agency, such as confectionery production, liquid soap making and other income-generating skills.

Speaking during the tour, Dr. Ogugua said the visit was aimed at obtaining first-hand information on the agency's activities, achievements and operational challenges to enable the Ministry provide the necessary support.

He directed the Executive Secretary to formally forward the agency's challenges to the Ministry of Education for appropriate consideration and necessary action.

The Commissioner commended the agency's commitment to equipping adult learners and out-of-school citizens with literacy, vocational and life skills that promote self-reliance and economic empowerment.

The Anambra State Agency for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (AANFE) is responsible for implementing adult literacy, non-formal and continuing education programmes across the state. The agency provides literacy education for adults and out-of-school youths while promoting vocational training and lifelong learning to enhance productivity, self-employment and community development.

The visit forms part of Dr. Ogugua's ongoing familiarisation tours of education agencies under the Ministry, aimed at strengthening service delivery and advancing Governor Chukwuma Soludo's vision for an inclusive and functional education system in Anambra State

COMMISSIONER OGUGUA CHARGES 2025/2026 BOOK REVIEWERS TO UPHOLD INTEGRITY IN TEXTBOOK SELECTION

By Obiageli Nwankwo

The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, has urged members of the 2025/2026 Book Review Committee to carry out their assignment with integrity and strict adherence to established guidelines, warning that the state will not tolerate any compromise in the textbook selection process.

Speaking while flagging off the 2026 Book Review exercise at the Community Education Resource Centre (CERC), Okpuno, on June 16, he said, “the exercise is aimed at ensuring that only textbooks that meet the state’s academic, ethical and curriculum standards are approved for use in public and private schools across Anambra”.

Addressing reviewers drawn from different sectors of the education family, the commissioner reminded them that the quality of books approved today would directly influence the quality of education received by children in the state.

He urged them to constantly ask themselves, “What kind of education are we giving our children?” adding, “What you approve today as recommended textbooks for our schools will determine what our children learn in the years ahead.”

Dr. Ogugua noted that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration is committed to producing knowledgeable and highly skilled graduates who can secure gainful employment or become self-reliant.

Expressing concern over the poor communication skills of many graduates, he said reversing the trend begins with approving quality instructional materials, stressing, “It starts with you as reviewers.”

In her vote of thanks, a member of the Book Review Committee, Mrs. Chieke Anthonia, commended the commissioner for personally flagging off the exercise, describing his presence as a demonstration of his commitment to improving education in Anambra State.

She assured him that the committee would justify the confidence reposed in it by conducting a transparent, objective and professional review of all books submitted for assessment.

The event was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, directors of the ministry and other stakeholders in the education sector.

Obiageli Nwankwo is of the Information/Public Relation OfficerMinistry of Education,Anambra State

Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation
Ministryofeducation
Anambraisrising
Informationiskey
Solutionishere
Solutioncontinues

EDUCATION STAKEHOLDERS SEEK STRONGER PARTNERSHIP TO ADVANCE REFORMS IN ANAMBRA SCHOOLS

By Obiageli Nwankwo

The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, has reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to transparency, accountability and efficient service delivery, emphasizing that lasting educational reforms can only be achieved through collaborative efforts and practical solutions from stakeholders.

Dr. Ogugua said this on June 15, when the Education Secretaries of the Catholic and Anglican Missions paid him a courtesy visit to discuss issues affecting school administration, exploring ways of strengthening cooperation to improve educational outcomes across the state.

The commissioner commended the delegation for engaging constructively with the ministry on matters affecting the education sector, encouraging them to complement their observations with actionable recommendations that align with government policies, contributing to improved service delivery.

He requested the submission of a comprehensive proposal detailing practical solutions to the concerns raised, assuring the delegation that the ministry would carefully review the recommendations, adopting those considered beneficial to the overall development of the sector.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Rev. Fr. Paschal Onwuegbuna praised the Anambra State government for its sustained investment in education, calling for deeper collaboration among key education agencies to strengthen policy implementation and institutional oversight.

He highlighted concerns from some schools regarding the financial implications of approval and inspection exercises, appealing to the ministry to review the process to ensure that quality assurance activities remain transparent, professional and supportive of school development.

The delegation advocated for closer coordination among the Ministry of Education, the Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC) and the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), noting that stronger synergy among the agencies would enhance stakeholder relations and improve service delivery.

They urged the ministry to sustain ongoing efforts to sanitise the education sector through policies that promote accountability, transparency and institutional cooperation.

In a vote of thanks, Ven. Dr. Charles Nnaemeka commended Dr. Ogugua’s inclusive leadership style, particularly his commitment to fostering collaboration among the Ministry, PPSSC and ASUBEB, noting that the growing partnership among the agencies has strengthened stakeholders’ confidence in the state’s education system.

Dr. Ogugua reiterated the ministry’s readiness to work closely with education partners and stakeholders in advancing reforms that will further improve the quality and accessibility of education in Anambra State.

ANAMBRA STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIP WITH NABTEB TO EXPAND SKILLS-BASED EDUCATION

By Obiageli Nwankwo

Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening technical and vocational education through enhanced collaboration with the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB).

The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, gave the assurance while receiving the Anambra State Coordinator of NABTEB, Mrs. Obianuju Igbelina, and her team during a courtesy visit to his office at the State Secretariat Complex, Awka.

Dr. Ogugua said the Ministry of Education remains committed to partnerships that promote quality education, skills acquisition and human capital development, describing technical and vocational education as critical to preparing young people for self-reliance and productivity.

He assured the delegation of the Ministry’s readiness to work closely with NABTEB in advancing educational development through innovative initiatives and strategic collaborations that will improve learning outcomes and equip students with practical skills.

Earlier, Mrs. Igbelina commended the Ministry’s efforts in advancing education and called for stronger collaboration to promote the objectives of NABTEB across the state.

She noted that many students are yet to fully benefit from NABTEB due to inadequate awareness, stressing that the examination body is Nigeria’s indigenous board for technical, vocational and business education with national and international recognition.

Mrs. Igbelina explained that students in non-technical secondary schools offering business-related subjects are also eligible to sit for NABTEB examinations, emphasizing the need for increased sensitisation among schools, students and parents.
She appealed for government support in creating greater awareness of NABTEB programmes and encouraging students in technical secondary schools to actively participate in the board’s qualifying examinations.

The visit ended with both institutions expressing commitment to deeper collaboration aimed at expanding access to skills-based education and strengthening technical, vocational and business education in Anambra State.

Anambra Targets Zero out of School Children as Education Commissioner Announces Enforcement Plan

.Says Soludo's Free Education Policy Has Reduced Rate from 2.5% to 0.4%

By Obiageli Nwankwo

The Anambra State Government is set to intensify efforts toward achieving a zero per cent out-of-school children rate, with the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, revealing plans to enforce stricter measures against parents who keep school-age children away from classrooms.

Speaking during an exclusive interview in his office at State secretariat Complex, Awka, Dr. Ogugua disclosed that the state had already recorded remarkable progress under Governor Soludo's free education initiative, reducing the rate of out-of-school children from 2.5 per cent to 0.4 per cent within the last two years.

The Commissioner, described the achievement as a testament to the success of Governor Soludo's education reforms, noting that the administration is determined to close the remaining gap and ensure that every child of school age is enrolled in school.

According to him, discussions are underway on legal and policy frameworks that would empower enforcement teams to address cases of children found roaming the streets during school hours.

"Our target is to bring the figure down to zero per cent. Every child belongs in the classroom, not on the streets during school hours," he said.

Dr. Ogugua stressed that with the state's free education policy covering public nursery, primary and secondary schools, no parent has any justification for denying a child access to basic education.

The Commissioner warned that parents who deliberately keep their children out of school may face sanctions once the necessary legal backing is secured.

He also issued a stern warning to teachers and school administrators who collect unauthorized fees from pupils and students, describing such practices as a direct violation of the government's free education policy.

Dr Ogugua further highlighted that Governor Soludo's vision extends beyond classroom learning to equipping students with relevant skills that would improve their employability and competitiveness in the modern workforce.

The Commissioner further observed that Anambra continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Nigeria's leading education destinations, attracting learners from different parts of the country due to improved infrastructure, adequate teaching personnel and innovative learning initiatives.

Reaffirming his commitment to the sector, Dr. Ogugua said his ministry would continue to implement policies that align with the governor's vision of making Anambra the foremost education hub in the country while ensuring that no child is left behind.

ANAMBRA EDUCATION COMMISSIONER DECRIES VANDALISM OF PUBLIC FACILITIES, PLEDGES TIGHTER SECURITY

By Obiageli Nwankwo
‎
‎The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, has expressed grave concern over the rising incidence of vandalism of government-owned facilities. He assured that the state government would intensify intelligence gathering and bolster security around public assets to address the menace.

‎Dr. Ogugua made this known on June 5 during a familiarisation and fact-finding tour of agencies under the Ministry of Education, including the Education Resource Centre (ERC), Okpuno, and the Examination Development Centre (EDC), Amawbia.
‎
‎Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, the Commissioner inspected facilities at both centres and described the extent of neglect and destruction caused by vandals as alarming.
‎
‎At the Education Resource Centre, Okpuno, Dr. Ogugua observed that the once-functional facility had become virtually moribund due to years of vandalism and abandonment. He stated that the state government would explore the possibility of rehabilitating and refurbishing the centre to restore it to productive use instead of allowing it to remain dilapidated.
‎
‎The Commissioner, who was taken on an inspection tour of the facility by the Officer-in-Charge of the ERC, Mr. Joseph Offor, directed him to prepare and submit a comprehensive report on the current condition of the centre to the Ministry for necessary evaluation and further action.
‎
‎During the inspection, the commissioner reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding public assets and ensuring that facilities established for educational advancement are shielded from further destruction.
‎
‎Dr. Ogugua also assured the management of the centre that their concerns would receive prompt attention. He emphasized that the government would not allow critical educational facilities to deteriorate or remain exposed to criminal elements.
‎
‎‎He stressed that public infrastructure represents substantial government investment and is the collective property of all citizens. He urged communities to take ownership of such facilities by protecting them from vandalism and unlawful occupation.
‎
‎At the Examination Development Centre, Amawbia, the Director of the Centre, Mrs. Ebele Ononihu, disclosed that the facility has been the target of persistent vandalism. She observed that the security personnel deployed to the centre are unarmed, thereby constraining their capacity to adequately safeguard government property.
‎
‎The inspection tour forms part of the Commissioner’s ongoing efforts to evaluate the operational status of agencies under the Ministry of Education and identify areas requiring urgent intervention to enhance service delivery across the education sector.
‎
‎

School Lands Not for Grabs, Says Ogugua as Anambra Targets Encroachers

By Obiageli Nwankwo

The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, has declared that the state government will no longer tolerate the encroachment of school lands, warning individuals and groups involved in the illegal occupation of such properties to desist or face legal consequences.

Dr. Ogugua issued the warning during a courtesy visit to his office on June 3 by a delegation from Central School, Ebenebe, led by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Mbonu.

Speaking during the meeting, the Commissioner described the growing incidence of encroachment on school lands across the state as a serious concern requiring urgent government intervention. He assured that the Ministry of Education would collaborate with the Office of the Attorney-General to develop lasting solutions and recover affected school properties.

"The state government is committed to protecting educational assets and will take decisive steps to address all forms of encroachment on school property," he stated.

Dr. Ogugua further advised school authorities to erect perimeter fences around their premises and ensure they possess survey plans of all lands belonging to their schools. According to him, such measures would help safeguard school properties against encroachment and land grabbing.

Earlier, Rev. Fr. Mbonu congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment and appealed for government intervention in the longstanding encroachment on the land belonging to Central School, Ebenebe.

According to him, some kindreds in the community have continued to encroach on portions of the school's land, a situation that has persisted for years without resolution and has adversely affected both academic and extracurricular activities.

The parish priest expressed optimism that the intervention of the Ministry would help bring a lasting resolution to the matter and protect the school's remaining land from further encroachment.

GLOBAL HONOURS, UTME EXCELLENCE, TECHNOVATION TRIUMPH: ANAMBRA EDUCATION CONTINUES TO LEAD

By Obiageli Nwankwo

The Anambra Education sector has once again demonstrated why it remains a model of academic excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness in Nigeria.

In a remarkable recognition of its outstanding contributions to education, Regina Pacis International School, Onitsha, has been officially invited to the prestigious 5th Africa Education Summit 2027 by Global Skills Hub, United Kingdom, where it will be honoured as one of Africa’s Outstanding Schools.
The award acknowledges the School’s exceptional commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the advancement of quality education across Nigeria and the African continent.

This latest international recognition comes on the heels of the school’s impressive performance in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), further reinforcing Anambra’s reputation as a hub of academic excellence.

Adding to the growing list of achievements, Regina Pacis International School recently clinched both the first and second positions in the Junior Category at the TechnovationGirls South-East Regional Pitch Event held in Aba, Abia State. The feat crowned the school as South-East Champion and earned it the honour of representing the region at the national level.

These achievements are not isolated successes; they are clear indicators of the strength, resilience, and forward-thinking nature of the Anambra education system. They reflect a learning environment that promotes academic excellence, technological innovation, creativity, and global relevance.

As Anambra schools continue to excel in academics, science, technology, and innovation, the state is steadily consolidating its position as Nigeria’s education capital and a leading contributor to Africa’s educational advancement.

Indeed, the Anambra education story is one of excellence without borders, where students are not only competing but consistently emerging among the very best on regional, national, and international stages.

MiNISTRY OF EDUCATION CLARIFIES STANCE ON GRADUATION PARTIES IN SCHOOLS

The Anambra State Ministry of Education has noted with concern recent complaints, misconceptions, and misleading reports surrounding the policy on graduation ceremonies and graduation party fees in schools across the state.

The Ministry wishes to clarify that graduation ceremonies have not been banned in schools. However, the State Government, through the Ministry of Education, has directed schools to discontinue the growing trend of lavish and burdensome graduation parties that place unnecessary financial pressure on parents and guardians.

The policy was introduced in the interest of promoting modesty, reducing excessive financial demands on families, and restoring sanity to school activities.

Consequently, schools are hereby reminded of the following guidelines:

1. Graduation party fees should only apply to pupils and students who are in graduating Classes, especially those in Primary Six and Senior Secondary 3

2. Non-graduating pupils or students must not be compelled to pay any graduation levy, party fee, or related charges.

3. Schools are not permitted to compel parents to purchase expensive or specially designed graduation clothes, uniforms, or costumes for ceremonies.

4. The booking of hotels, event centres, or other extravagant venues for school graduation parties is strongly discouraged.

5. Schools are also advised against organizing elaborate outdoor parties on community fields or other venues that encourage unnecessary spending and social competition among parents.

6. Graduation ceremonies should be conducted in a simple, modest, and decent manner within the school premises.

The State Government remains committed to ensuring that education remains affordable, inclusive, and free from unnecessary financial exploitation.

Parents, guardians, and members of the public are therefore advised to disregard any contrary information and report any school found violating these directives to the Ministry of Education for appropriate action.

The Ministry appreciates the cooperation and understanding of parents, school administrators, and stakeholders in sustaining discipline and promoting a healthy educational environment in Anambra State.

Signed:

Anambra State Ministry of Education

CHILDREN’S DAY MESSAGE FROM THE HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER FOR EDUCATION, ANAMBRA STATE, DR. EKENE OGUGUA

Today, as we celebrate Children’s Day, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt congratulations to every child across Anambra State and beyond.

Children are the pride of every nation and the hope of a brighter tomorrow. Your dreams, talents, creativity, and determination inspire us daily and remind us of the great future that lies ahead for our dear state and country.

As a government, we remain committed to providing quality education, safe learning environments, and opportunities that will help every child grow into responsible, confident, and successful citizens. We believe that every child deserves love, protection, guidance, and access to the right education that will unlock their full potential.

I encourage all our children to remain focused on their studies, uphold good values, respect their parents and teachers, and continue to believe in themselves. The future belongs to you, and with hard work and discipline, you can achieve greatness.

On behalf of the Ministry of Education, I celebrate all the wonderful children of Anambra State. May your lives continue to shine with hope, joy, excellence, and endless possibilities.

Happy Children’s Day!

Dr. Ekene Ogugua
Commissioner for Education
Anambra State