By Anietie Akpan
In furtherance of efforts to strengthen basic education and reduce the number of out-of-school children, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), has taken the ongoing advocacy and sensitization campaign on school enrollment to Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The campaign, themed “Enroll Today, Secure Tomorrow,” was aimed at encouraging parents and guardians to enroll their children in public primary schools, in line with the Akwa Ibom State Government’s policy of free and compulsory basic education.
Speaking during the sensitization exercise at QIC Group School, Ikot Imo/Ikot Edibon, the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom SUBEB, Rt. Hon. Anietie Etuk, explained that the advocacy visit was designed to directly engage parents and address challenges affecting school enrollment in the area.
“Today, we are in Nsit Ubim on an advocacy visit to appeal to parents to enroll their children in school”.
“Primary education is basic and essential, there is time for farming and there is time for school, and both should be properly managed.”
He added that quality education brings pride not only to families but to entire communities, saying “it will be a thing of pride to see our children return from school speaking well and performing excellently.
“The government is renovating schools and providing qualified teachers so that children can learn in a safe and conducive environment without fear.”
Also speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, urged parents in the area to prioritize education, describing it as the foundation for sustainable development.
“There are enough projects going on in Akwa Ibom State today, and these projects will require well-trained and experienced people from our local communities.
“But without basic education and proper understanding, our children will not be able to occupy these spaces in the future, that is why parents must take advantage of this free and compulsory education provided by Governor Umo Eno”, he said.
Dr. Ndueso emphasized that education should not be neglected for other activities, noting that early enrollment is key to building a knowledgeable and productive society.
The Village Head of Ikot Imo, Eteidung Raymond Ekpo commended Governor Eno for prioritizing education and rural development, while appreciating SUBEB for bringing the campaign to the grassroots.
“We thank the Governor for this initiative and urge parents to do more for their children by supporting their education. We also encourage teachers to remain committed so our children can succeed”, he added.
Other stakeholders at the event also praised the state government’s commitment to basic education and appealed to residents to protect school facilities and fully support the enrollment drive.
The advocacy campaign which saw the team walk round some streets in the area, forms part of the Akwa Ibom State Government’s broader strategy to promote human capital development and secure a brighter future for children across the state.
