Abia State has announced a groundbreaking initiative to provide free education for all children from primary through secondary school, starting in January 2025.
The move is part of the state's commitment to uphold the 2006 Child Rights Law, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent any child from accessing quality education.
Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, emphasized that this policy aims to eliminate educational inequality. He also warned that parents who fail to enroll their children in school after the policy takes effect will face legal consequences.
This initiative reflects the state's dedication to promoting universal education and child welfare.
“There is no reason whatsoever why parents should not send their children to school,” Kanu said. “The issue of indigency is no longer the reason for non-acquisition of free and basic education in Abia State.” He added that starting January 1, 2025, parents who don’t follow this rule will be taken to court.
Kanu also mentioned that the state is working on making schools better and helping education workers more. He said they’re still planning to move part of Abia State University from Umuahia to Uturu, and they’ll talk with everyone involved about any worries they have about this move.