The Secretary to the Enugu government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, has revealed disturbing education statistics in the state.
During the quadrennial convention of the Old Boys Association of Union Secondary School in Enugu, Onyia disclosed that 50% of pupils in Enugu State lack essential English reading and basic mathematics skills.
He emphasized the staggering discovery that, even after six years of primary education, half of the children struggle to read English words and those who can face challenges in comprehension.
He added that a significant portion of the pupils grapple with solving elementary subtraction problems.
Highlighting the gravity of this issue, Onyia underscored that the problem extends beyond Enugu.
Citing global organizations such as the World Bank, UNICEF, and UNESCO, he termed it the “Nigerian Learning Crisis,” revealing that three out of four children lack proficiency in literacy and numeracy upon completing primary education.
He said to address the findings, the Enugu State government has initiated a comprehensive policy shift in education.
”As part of these reforms, smart school models will be implemented across the state’s 260 electoral wards.
”These models will boast advanced facilities such as artificial intelligence and robotics centres, along with interactive smart boards.
”The revised academic curricula will focus on experiential learning, problem-solving, and case studies to equip students not only with emerging technological skills but also with global competitiveness,” he said.
Onyia stressed the urgency of transforming teaching methods and student learning experiences, emphasizing continuous teacher training and reshaping pedagogical approaches within Enugu’s education system.
”These measures aim to tackle the pressing educational challenges and pave the way for a more promising future for Enugu’s students,” he added.
