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The Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, (Oyo SUBEB), Dr. Nureni Adeniran has solicited the partnership of National Parents Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) and other stakeholders in the education sector, in the quest to improve teaching and learning at the basic education level in the. state.
Adeniran made the appeal on Friday while receiving in audience members of NAPTAN at the Board’s headquarters in Ibadan.
He described the association as an integral part of the transformation process in the basic education sector of Oyo State, adding that their influence would amplify government’s policies and programmes in the basic education sector to its members.
The Chairman further sought for collaborative ways of improving basic education in the state, noting that the government is set to work hand-in-hand with the Association to ensure an all-inclusive administration in public schools.
Revealing Oyo State Government’s plans to leave the basic education sector better than it met the system, Adeniran said that the state government is committed to its zero tuition/fees policy.
While the SUBEB boss posited that parents and teachers under the aegis of NAPTAN could emulate Alumni associations by contributing to the development of schools in the state, he however reiterated that under no circumstance should a pupil or parent be mandated to contribute any amount.
“Oyo State Government has many plans for our primary schools. In this state, basic education has been declared free, compulsory and accessible for all pupils within primary school age by Governor Seyi Makinde.
“Yes, parents and teachers association in schools may decide to contribute to the development of education in our schools, Government does not frown at it. But Government severely frowns at anyone hindering our children from learning, because he or she cannot meet up with any fees.
“We also have plans to digitise teaching and learning in our schools and as the number of pupils’ population increases, we solicit supports of interest groups like NAPTAN,”Adeniran said.
Adeniran also assured the delegation that the state government through the Board, would follow due process in recruitment of teachers, adding that the process will commence after TESCOM’s recruitment ends.
Leader of the delegation, Mr. Oyawale Adebayo, asserted that NAPTAN is ready to collaborate with Oyo SUBEB, in ensuring maximum security in primary schools across the state.
He also sought permission of the Board to have a one day seminar for parents and teachers in Oyo State on their responsibilities towards children, stressing that the association will ensure members do not compromise standards set by the Board under any circumstance.