WAEC blacklists Abia schools over exam malpractice

WAEC has disqualified several secondary schools in Abia State from participating in its examinations due to involvement in test fraud. The Commissioner for Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche, made this announcement during a press briefing in Umuahia, the state capital. While most of the affected schools are private, the commissioner expressed disapproval of any action that tarnishes the state's reputation and stated that the affected schools' operating licenses would be revoked.

The commissioner emphasized that the state supported WAEC's decision as it would help curb the degradation of academic standards by some schools. She noted that the state had already closed several of the affected schools due to their unwholesome practices and regretted that warnings were not heeded.

In other developments, the commissioner for information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed that the governor of the state, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved the urgent reconstruction of 170 primary and 51 public secondary schools across the state. Ten primary and three secondary schools will be selected from each of the state's 17 Local Government Areas for renovation. This initiative aims to improve the state's public schools and create a conducive learning environment.

Additionally, the governor has authorized the distribution of N62 million in bursaries to Abia law undergraduates studying at various tertiary institutions nationwide. This move is intended to help students cope with rising tuition and training costs amidst economic challenges.

Regarding the school renovations, each benefiting school will have staff quarters, a head teacher's residence, and a caretaker's house to ensure the safety of school property. This initiative reflects the Otti-led administration's commitment to education as a fundamental pillar of development. The commissioner for education reiterated the state government's determination to revitalize and promote education, with renovations planned in stages until all public schools in the state are upgraded.