Two unauthorized schools operating illegally in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State have been shut down by the state Commissioner for Education, Mr. Stephen Odey. The crackdown comes as part of the government’s renewed effort to sanitize the education sector and ensure quality learning for students.
The affected schools, Express Pathway Academy and Lord Animex Standard School, both located at Effraya Junction, were closed after an unscheduled inspection by the Commissioner and his team. Their proprietors, Mr. Adagom Elijah Akpere and Mrs. Mbotidem Otu, have been directed to appear before the Ministry of Education in Calabar to obtain proper guidelines for school operations in the state.
Speaking after the operation, Commissioner Odey warned parents to be vigilant and verify the accreditation of schools before enrolling their children. He urged parents and guardians to prioritize government-approved institutions to safeguard the quality of education in the state.
The Commissioner reaffirmed that Governor Bassey Otu’s administration is committed to revamping the education sector, calling for collective action to restore and maintain high standards.
During an impromptu visit to Velos Secondary School in Ikom, it was discovered that only 13 out of 31 teachers were present at 7:40 a.m. while the morning assembly was ongoing. Shockingly, both the Principal and Vice Principal were absent. Disturbed by the situation, Odey ordered the Coordinating Supervisory Director (CSD), Mrs. Okongor Caroline Ndim, to issue queries to the absentee school officials, stressing that education requires dedication and accountability.
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At Government Secondary School Asu-Egbe, Ikom, the Commissioner’s team found 15 out of 22 teachers on duty, with three officially on sick leave. While acknowledging the growing student population, Odey expressed disappointment over the school’s disorganization. He observed that many students were idle and not engaged in learning during the crucial morning hours, warning that such lapses could undermine the state’s education reform efforts. He tasked the Principal, Mr. Ogar Ogar Eku, and the teaching staff with ensuring discipline and academic excellence.
The Commissioner also inspected Government Secondary School Effraya in Etung, where he found a relatively better learning environment. The Principal, Mrs. Mary Ochang, and eight teachers were actively engaged in classroom activities. However, a major issue became evident—most students lacked desks and lockers, making learning uncomfortable. In response, Odey gave parents and guardians a two-week deadline to provide necessary furniture for their children, stressing that community support is crucial in complementing government efforts.
Additionally, the Principal highlighted an urgent need for more teachers. The Commissioner pledged to address the staff shortage by redeploying teachers to the school, reinforcing the state’s commitment to improving education infrastructure and learning conditions.
