SOLUDO COMMISSIONS NEWLY RENOVATED SCHOOL FACILITIES, CALLS FOR COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATIONAL REFORM IN NIGERIA
By Christian ABURIME
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive vision for educational reforms in Nigeria.
He stated this during the inauguration of newly renovated classrooms at St. Jude’s Secondary School in Ihiala.
In his remarks, Governor Soludo highlighted the significance of collaboration, stating, “The partnership between government, the public, the private sector, and the community is critical for driving development forward.” This message underscored his administration’s commitment to the Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) policy, aimed at revitalizing the state’s educational landscape.
Celebrating the involvement of Keystone Bank in this initiative, he said, “Human capital is the best investment,” reflecting a broader understanding of education as a foundational element for societal progress. The Governor also addressed the challenges faced by the public education system upon his assumption of office, emphasizing, “The quality of education can be assessed through public schools,” asserting that education can serve as a powerful tool to break socio-economic barriers.
Governor Soludo called on public-spirited individuals and organizations to “prioritize education and health,” reinforcing that collective effort is essential for fostering a more equitable and just society. He urged others to “emulate Keystone Bank’s leadership and commitment to public schools,” laying the groundwork for more comprehensive support for educational initiatives across the nation.
Professor Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, the Commissioner for Education, commended the Governor’s efforts, stating, “He has been instrumental in creating a state with the lowest number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.” She noted the “unprecedented accomplishments achieved within just three years under his leadership” and affirmed that the project fully supports the Governor’s PPCP initiative, expressing gratitude to Keystone Bank for its contributions.
Lady Ada Chukwudozie, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Keystone Bank, remarked, “This project is a seed of hope, inspired by the Governor’s vision for education in Anambra State.”
Mr. Imam Hassan, the Managing Director of Keystone Bank, elaborated that the initiative was carried out under the Keystone Bank Education Support Initiative, acknowledging the challenge of selecting a school amid the Governor’s extensive efforts across various institutions.
He added that the project includes upgrades to the administration block, the school hall, ten classrooms, among other facilities, aimed at complementing the Governor’s work. “Public-Private-Community Partnerships serve the public good,” Hassan stated, encouraging all to make good use of the new facilities.
In a show of community support, the Ihiala community presented a cheque of fifty million naira for the Governor’s second-term campaign during the event, signaling strong backing for his ongoing educational initiatives.