Nelson Utip
Annual School Census for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic years have began in Cross River State, The project started on Tuesday at the Ministry of Education headquarters in Calabar, the focus of the project is on data collection from public, private, and technical schools within the state to enhance effective educational planning and policy-making.
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Stephen Odey was grateful to governor Otu for his interest in educational advancement of the state as he welcomed various stakeholders to the event.
The Commissioner highlighted that the Annual School Census will enhance the state’s educational framework through strategic planning and collaboration. The data collection will be instrumental in shaping upcoming policies and programs, in tandem with Governor Otu’s vision for a forward-thinking and inclusive education sector in Cross River State:
“We are diligently working to enhance the education sector in Cross River State.” He said, while thanking The Governor for paying the West African Examination Council (WAEC) registration fees for 14,804 students in the state.
Odey used the occasion to announce the Governor’s endorsement of the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa which had been duly signed into law by The State House of Assemby on January 8, 2025, along with an allocated startup grant.
Odey emphasized the importance of data collection during the census, saying that it is crucial for the future of the state’s education. He applauded the National Union of Teachers and directors of the Ministry of Education as well as members of The Union of Proprietors of Private schools for their contribution to education advancement in the state:
“The data gathered must be accurate, as it will direct future planning and resource allocation,” he reiterated.
Odey praised Teckplus Digital Solutions, Future X, and the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) for their cooperation and contributions to the education sector.
Adebayo Adeyemi, Chief Operating Officer of Future X, praised Senator Odey for his leadership and steadfast dedication to advancing education in the state.
