The Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) has demoted six head teachers in Awada Primary Schools 1?6, Obosi, Idemili North local government area, for violating Governor Chukwuma Soludo?s free education policy by collecting unauthorized fees from pupils.

ASUBEB?s Executive Chairman, Dr. Vera Nwadinobi, announced the disciplinary action, stating that the teachers? conduct undermined the state government?s free and compulsory education initiative.

In addition to their demotion, the affected teachers are required to refund all monies collected, hand over their positions to the next-ranking officers, and step down immediately.

Dr. Nwadinobi warned that any teacher or school head found extorting parents or guardians would face severe consequences, including possible dismissal. She disclosed that an investigation by the board uncovered multiple unauthorized charges, including fees for extra lessons, classroom supplies like markers and pens, toilet cleaning, and other expenses covered by the government?s N50,000 monthly school running costs.

Other illicit fees discovered included payments for compiled study materials, novels, retirement send-forths, burial levies, inflated Common Entrance Exam fees (above the approved N2,900), and exam portal charges.

Dr. Nwadinobi reiterated the government?s commitment to maintaining a fee-free education policy and emphasized zero tolerance for such ?irresponsible conduct.? She noted that 3,115 teachers were recently employed, complementing the 5,000 recruited in 2022, to strengthen the state?s education system.

Parents and guardians were urged to report any unauthorized fee demands to the appropriate authorities for swift action. (Vanguard)

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