Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has denied warning teachers in the state against enrolling their wards in private schools.
This is contrary to a report alleging that the governor expressed displeasure at the trend by teachers despite his effort to improve the quality of public schools in the state.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Olabode Richard, the Governor, however, stated that it would be morally wrong for teachers to keep their wads away from public schools where they work.
He said, “Our attention has been drawn to a news story making the rounds, particularly on the social media with the above headline. It is imperative to enlighten our people and shed light on the perspective of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, who made the statement.
“Undoubtedly, the Ondo State Government under Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has made huge investment in the education sector in the state, especially in Primary and Secondary Schools. Tertiary institutions not excluded. The rot, which pervaded public schools in the state before the Akeredolu administration assumed office is fast disappearing. This has also led to increase in student enrollment in most of the schools.
“Under the Akeredolu administration, over 800 Public Primary Schools have been reconstructed and renovated with perimeter fence, ICT center and play group equipment. The students now enjoy modern desks and chairs procured by the Akeredolu administration. Besides, Governor Akeredolu recently recruited one thousand two hundred teachers in the Public primary schools.
It is based on this background that teachers in the public schools were urged on moral grounds to enroll their wards in public schools for confidence building. This will subsequently increase enrollment and further encourage government to embark on more upgrade of public schools.
“Succinctly, there is no policy or law in Ondo State that forbids anyone in the service of the government, including teachers, from enrolling their wards in any school. However, there is always a place for moral burden. It is, therefore, not an offence for teachers to enroll their wards in any school of their choice. But, it will be morally wrong for teachers, who are proud of their works and teachings to put their wards in a private school.
“Finally, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, will continue to prioritise education and develop it for the overall interest of the people of the state. It is the belief of the Governor that qualitative education is the key to a better tomorrow.”
