By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Ebonyi State Government has concluded plans to commence fumigation of classes and clearing of the entire schools’ environment in the state ahead of reopening of schools for effective teaching and learning processes.

The state Commissioner for Education, Dr Onyebuchi Chima, made this known during a press briefing on Thursday in Abakaliki, the state capital. He stated that in as much as they are not happy losing an academic period due to COVID-19 pandemic, they are not eager to risk health of the pupils and students who are the future leaders of Nigeria for any reason at all.

According to Dr Chima, the state government will intensify and expand radio and television teaching and learning through opening Educational technology assessment centres to carryout virtual learning in the hinterland as a measure to keep not just the exam classes but all the children of school age busy till when it is safe to reopen schools.

On the part of teachers, the Commissioner disclosed that the state will commence master trainers’ workshop for them to keep their intellectual power alive and promised to carry the staff and management of private schools along to reduce effects of COVID-19.

The Commissioner urged all parents and guardians to make provision for virtual learning for their children/wards in line with 21st century innovations sequel to COVID-19 pandemic and advised them to be mindful of who comes in contact with their children to avoid rape and all forms of assault.

He decried the vandalisation of government school properties by hoodlums and threatened to hold traditional rulers, town union executives, teachers, principals and all stakeholders of the host communities responsible for that, as there should be synergy among them to ensure safety of all government property within their domain.

The state Secondary Education Board chairman and her Universal Basic Education Board, Chief Hycient Ikpor, pledged to support the radio/television teaching and enjoined all stakeholders in educational sector to leave no stone unturned.

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