The Government of Imo State has given approval for the resumption of schools on Monday October 5, 2020.

The resumption is however subject to the adherence to the recommendations by the Committee responsible for ensuring that Covid-19 safety protocols headed by the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prof. Placid Njoku.

The decision to reopen the schools was reached at the State Executive Council Meeting on Wednesday September 30, 2020 presided over by Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Declan Emelumba who briefed the press also said that the Council gave approval for the Imo State School system to be fully automated and digitalized to capture pupils and students enrollment; teachers, pupils and students personal data; payment of school fees; examination details and other relevant information concerning schools in Imo.

The reason for automation, the Commissioner emphasized, is to make it easy for government, parents, teachers, students, pupils and the general public to access information on schools as well as data of anyone who passed through such schools. Emelumba said that the Commissioner for Education will head the automation process.

The Commissioner however informed, regrettably, that the State Executive Council had received information that the planned warning strike by doctors in Imo State is not only politically motivated, but an intention to blackmail government.

He said that government has been making frantic efforts to sanitise the wrongs and rots in the payroll system where past administrations, civil and public servants have been found to be complicit.

Government therefore enjoined the public not to be deceived by the planned doctors warning strike. Emelumba however urged the doctors in the State, especially their leaders, to reconsider their stand on the planned warning strike and think of amicable resolution through dialogue with the appropriate government officials.

On the security situation in the country and threats by Indigenous Peoples Of Biafra (IPOB) and some dissident groups directing “sit-at-home” in respect of October 1, and Independence Day celebration, the Council assured that government has provided adequate security for all Imo citizens at all times, Independence day anniversary celebrations or not.

Emelumba was flanked at the briefing by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard T.O. Ikegwuoha, the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Ikechukwu Umeh, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. C. C. Osuala and the Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser to the Governor Oguwike Nwachuku.

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