The Cross River State Ministry of Education has commenced the annual school census for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions.
The event, held on Tuesday, at the Ministry of Education headquarters in Calabar, the state capital, is aimed at gathering data from public, private, and technical schools across the state to support effective planning and decision-making for the education sector.
Speaking during the ceremony, the state Commissioner for Education, Senator Stephen Odey, welcomed stakeholders and thanked Governor Bassey Otu for his dedication to improving the education system.
He noted that the annual school census will strengthen the state’s education system through effective planning and collaboration.
The data gathered will form the basis for future policies and programmes, aligning with Otu’s vision for a progressive and inclusive education sector in the state.
He said, “We are working tirelessly to reposition the education sector in Cross River State. We thank Governor Otu for funding the West African Examination Council (WAEC) registration fees for 14,804 students from the state who passed their mock exams, ensuring their costs are fully covered.”
Odey also announced the governor’s approval for the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa, signed into law on January 8, 2025, along with the release of a take-off grant.
Additionally, he noted that all academic results in the state are now digitised and can be accessed globally, making verification and accessibility easier.
He stressed the significance of accurate data collection during the census, describing it as essential for shaping the future of education in the state.
He also urged the Nigerian Union of Teachers, ministry directors, and other stakeholders to ensure the process is thorough, transparent, and error-free.
“The data collected must be accurate, as it will guide future planning and allocation of resources,” he added.
He applauded Teckplus Digital Solutions and Future X, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools NAPPS, and ANCOPPS, for their partnership and contributions to the state’s education system.
The Chief Operating Officer of Future X, Adebayo Adeyemi, commended Odey for his leadership and unwavering commitment towards the development of the education sector in the state.
He said, “The education sector has witnessed remarkable progress since Senator Stephen Odey assumed office. Cross River State is lucky to have him in this role.”
The National Council member for the South-South Zone of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, Mike Egre assured stakeholders of the readiness of private schools to participate in the exercise.
“Private schools are prepared and committed to transparent and accurate data collection,” he said while urging the prompt distribution of census materials,” he disclosed.
