The Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT-UBEB) expresses profound gratitude to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for approving a substantial N30.9 billion fund dedicated to revitalizing public schools in the federal capital. Hassan Sule, the Acting Chairman and Secretary of the Board, conveyed this appreciation during a press briefing in Abuja. Sule underscored the transformative potential of this financial infusion in bolstering basic education in the nation’s capital.
During the briefing, Sule emphasized the positive impact the fund could have on addressing issues of over-population in FCT schools and combating the persistent challenge of out-of-school children in the region. He attributed the strain on public school infrastructure to a surge in student enrollment, particularly due to the influx of people into the city. Sule highlighted the enrollment explosion in schools across Kwali, Abaji, Gwagwalada, and Kuje area councils, putting existing facilities under considerable pressure.
Sule stressed that if efficiently utilized, the substantial fund has the potential to alleviate these challenges. He acknowledged the FCT Minister’s commitment to ensuring sustained access to quality basic education for children in the FCT. Sule disclosed that the 2023 UBEB Intervention Action Plan would extend support to schools not covered in the current N30.9 billion intervention, specifically mentioning Abaji, Gwagwalada, and nomadic schools established by communities.
In detailing the achievements of FCT-UBEB, Sule mentioned the successful rehabilitation and construction of over 400 classrooms, along with training for more than 7,000 teachers. The board has also distributed over 150,000 textbooks to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in basic schools. Sule affirmed their goal to reduce the incidence of out-of-school children by bringing basic education to communities, highlighting the establishment of 18 new junior secondary schools and 30 new primary schools in recent years.
This development follows the announcement by Danlami Hayyo PhD, the Mandate Secretary of the Education Secretariat, FCT Administration. He detailed the allocation of N30.9 billion for a comprehensive rehabilitation program, including the renovation of 40 schools to be completed within 100 days and an accelerated whole-school rehabilitation initiative starting with 18 schools. An additional N4.5 billion has been earmarked for the second batch of whole-school rehabilitation, covering four schools.
