Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has taken a bold step to make education more accessible by banning all payments, including PTA levies, in public primary and secondary schools across the state. He made this announcement during a New Year broadcast to the people of Abia.

The governor stated that an imprest account system has been introduced to help Headteachers and Principals manage the day-to-day running of schools. This system ensures that schools operate smoothly without burdening parents with additional fees.

Starting January 1, 2025, a new law mandates that all children of school age must attend school every day. Governor Otti warned that no child should be denied an education or extorted under any circumstances.

According to Otti, ”As soon as the new school term begins later in the month, it will be unlawful to find any child outside the walls of the classroom during school hours.

“We have stopped all forms of payments in the primary and secondary schools, not even PTA levies should be charged any parent or guardian in any public school in the State.”

In addition to prioritizing education, the governor reassured retired workers that their pensions would be paid before the salaries of serving officials. This move is part of his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of retirees and ensuring fairness in the state’s financial operations.

“We shall be strict with enforcement and it will be a grievous mistake to test our will”, Otti warned the public school administrators and teachers

With these policies, Governor Otti aims to create a supportive and equitable educational environment for all children in Abia State.