By Sarah Manya
Jalingo — The Chairperson of the Taraba State Universal Basic Education Board (TSUBEB), Mrs Christiana Taninga Binga, on Monday visited several primary schools in Jalingo to monitor resumption activities for the third term and reinforce the state’s free education policy.
The visits to schools such as Salihu Dogo Government Primary and Wuro Mashi Primary School Mayo-Gwai come shortly after schools resumed from the April second-term break.
Mrs Binga emphasized the critical role of teachers in the success of Governor Agbu Kefas’s free education policy, urging them to demonstrate commitment and discipline in their duties.
“I encourage you to get prepared with lesson plans daily,” she told teachers during the inspection. “I want to warn those teachers who have the habit of truancy to desist.”
She noted that any staff member who neglects their duties was sabotaging the governor’s free education agenda.
“Let’s sound it clear to you that any absentee staff is opposed to the free education policy of the number one citizen of the state,” she said sternly. “If you know the implications of such acts, then you must guide your conduct.”
Binga also appealed to teachers to treat their pupils with the same seriousness and care as they would their own children.
“I want you to take these pupils as your children; if you relegate them, someone will relegate your child too,” she said.
While warning erring staff, she also assured dedicated teachers of improved welfare, including promotions and other incentives, to encourage excellence in the teaching profession.
The TSUBEB chairperson was accompanied on the visit by Permanent Board Members II and III, Hon. Zakariya John and Hon. Aminu Jika, as well as key directors from the board. She promised to continue monitoring schools to ensure standards are maintained in line with the governor’s vision for basic education in the state.