Anambra Govt Begins Upgrade of 29 Public Schools to Smart Schools

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra State Government has commenced upgrade of 29 public schools into ‘smart schools’ to make education efficient and prepare students to adapt to technology-driven environments.

Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh made the disclosure while speaking with journalists on Tuesday in Awka.

Chuma-Udeh described ‘smart school’ as an educational institution that integrates advanced technology and innovative tools to enhance classroom learning and teaching.

She said: “Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration is prioritising the education sector by establishing a robust educational system for public schools in the state.

“Under the first phase of Gov. Soludo’s education reform, plans are underway to upgrade 29 public schools to ‘smart schools’ with subsequent phases targeting more schools across the state.

“This will make education more engaging, efficient, and aligned with the demands of the modern world.

“It will also prepare students to adapt to technology-driven environments and foster skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.”

The Commissioner highlighted the employment of 8,150 teachers, free education policy from nursery to senior secondary level and rehabilitation of public schools as significant strides recorded to improve the education sector.

She said that Soludo-led administration was committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative, and child-focused educational environment that leaves no child behind.

“The state government pays the school fees of every child in public school to ensure that no child in Anambra is denied access to quality education.

“Through comprehensive quality assurance mechanism, the state government monitors and ensure that private schools adhere to state-approved curriculum,” she said.

Chuma-Udeh said the official closing time for primary and secondary schools were 1:30p.m and 2:30p.m, respectively.

According to her, if parents choose to enroll their child for private lessons or extracurricular activities outside the official school hours, it is entirely their decision.