Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has announced a groundbreaking commitment, revealing that his administration plans to allocate 30% of the 2024 state budget to the education sector.
Governor Mbah emphasized that education serves as the paramount tool against poverty and underscored his determination to provide world-class education to every child in the state, regardless of their socio-economic background.
Addressing the audience at the 19th convocation of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) in Agbani on Saturday, Governor Mbah, who is also the Visitor to the University, outlined the significant changes expected in the realm of basic education.
“In my view, education is probably our greatest weapon in our war against poverty in the medium to long run. It is for this reason that education is at the core of the strategy, which we envisage will see us boost our GDP from the current levels of about $4.4 billion to at least $30 billion by the end of 2031,” stated Governor Mbah.
The governor detailed plans for a comprehensive overhaul of the educational system, encompassing basic schools through tertiary institutions.
Notably, the most radical changes are anticipated in the basic education sector. The commitment to allocate close to 30% of the state budget to education in 2024 surpasses international benchmarks.
Governor Mbah highlighted ongoing initiatives, including the completion of one smart school, the awarding of contracts for nine additional smart schools, and plans for 250 more such schools in less than 14 months, covering all 260 wards.
These smart schools will be equipped with cutting-edge facilities, including internet access, solar power, robotics and artificial intelligence centers, modern ICT centers, laboratories, and interactive digital whiteboards.
Commending the ESUT management for aligning with the government’s vision for tertiary education, Governor Mbah expressed satisfaction with the steps taken to transform the educational landscape.
The convocation ceremony also witnessed the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished individuals, including Osagie Okunbor, Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, Ike Chioke, Group Managing Director of Afrivest West Africa Ltd, and Surv Ugochukwu Chime, a prominent estate developer.
Additionally, outstanding students, led by the best graduating student, Miss Barbara Ijeoma Ikeonyia, were recognized with cash awards.
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