Gov Mutfwang Reaffirms Commitment To Improving Education Standards

Plateau State governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has flagged off the distribution of teaching and learning materials to strengthen education and promote academic excellence in the state.

Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalising public education in the state, declaring that his government was determined to restore confidence in public schools and improve learning outcomes.

He made the pledge during the distribution of Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) to the 17 local government areas at the headquarters of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dogon Dutse, Jos.

The event also featured the inauguration and inspection of a newly constructed administrative office block, as well as the decoration of pupils who brought honour to the state at the National Basic Education School Sports (BESS) Competition held in Bauchi.

The governor recalled that the state’s education sector faced serious challenges when his administration assumed office in 2023. He, however, stated that deliberate reforms and sustained by the government investments were changing the narratives.

“We made up our minds from the onset that we must get public education right. If public education is not right, we cannot claim that education is right,” the governor stated.

He expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms in infrastructure development, teacher welfare, training and the provision of instructional materials would restore Plateau’s reputation as a destination for quality education.

“I want to pledge to the people of Plateau State that, by the grace of God, by the time we exit office, public schools will become schools of first choice for parents,” he added.

The executive chairman of Plateau SUBEB, Mr Sunday Amuna, in his welcome address, disclosed that the board inherited numerous challenges upon assuming office in July 2023, including industrial disputes arising from unpaid salary arrears, inadequate office accommodation, broken-down operational vehicles, and deteriorating school infrastructure.

He said the progress recorded was through the support of the state government and access to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) counterpart funding.

Also, the commissioner for Education, Dr Kachollom Gang, described the commissioning of the office block, the decoration of outstanding pupils and the distribution of learning materials as milestones in strengthening the education sector in the state.

The event featured the distribution of 143,931 textbooks, 6,675 school bags, 6,675 pairs of school sandals, pencils and exercise books to strengthen teaching and learning in the state’s public primary schools.