IMO LAWMAKERS CALL FOR FREE AND COMPULSORY BASIC AND SECONDARY EDUCATION ACROSS PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
6- NOV- 2025

The Imo State House of Assembly has appealed to Governor Hope Uzodimma to implement a free and compulsory education policy across public primary and secondary schools in the state as a strategic measure to boost enrollment and reduce the number of out-of-school children. This appeal came after legislators unanimously adopted a motion presented during plenary by Hon. Chisom Ojukwu, the member representing Nkwerre Constituency.

While presenting the motion, Hon. Ojukwu emphasized that education remains the foundation of societal development, economic advancement, and responsible citizenship. He argued that no child in Imo State should be deprived of formal education due to financial constraints, insisting that the state must align with global standards in educational accessibility.

Citing Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, Ojukwu reminded the House that the Nigerian government has a constitutional duty to provide free and compulsory education at both the primary and secondary school levels and ensure that higher education is made accessible to citizens. According to him, any society that ignores education risks stunted development and social imbalance.

The lawmaker further proposed that digital literacy be made compulsory in public schools, alongside the establishment of Federal Government Student Loan Scheme help desks in all 27 local government areas of the state. He said this will ensure rural dwellers have equal access to information and opportunities offered by the student loan program.

Hon. Ojukwu praised the ongoing efforts of the Uzodimma administration in the education sector, such as banning illegal levies in schools, recruiting and training teachers, and refurbishing school facilities. Nevertheless, he pointed out that many families, especially those with low income, still struggle to pay school fees and provide basic educational materials for their children.

In light of this, he stressed the need for the introduction of a free education policy to alleviate the burden on parents and ensure that every child in Imo State has the opportunity to learn and thrive. He added that such a policy would drastically reduce school dropout rates and promote literacy across the state.

To strengthen the sustainability of the education sector, Ojukwu proposed the creation of an Education Trust Fund and the development of a ten-year strategic plan that would cater to long-term funding, infrastructure, and learning improvements. This, he noted, would guarantee a better future for Imo children.

Discussing digital advancement, the lawmaker stated that equipping students with modern digital tools and internet access would enable them to compete with their peers globally. He stressed that the world is rapidly evolving, and education systems must adapt if the youth are to remain relevant in an increasingly technology-driven environment.

He further noted that integrating digital learning platforms in public schools would prepare students for future careers and contribute to national development. According to him, the 21st-century economy thrives on technology, innovation, and knowledge acquisition.

Members of the House supported the motion after deliberations, acknowledging that educational accessibility is a fundamental right and a cornerstone for nation-building. They agreed that the policy proposal aligns with the developmental vision of the state and the constitutional obligations of the government.

There was a unanimous understanding among the lawmakers that free education would not only ease financial pressure on parents but also boost literacy rates, reduce crime, and empower future generations.

Following the adoption of the motion, the House directed the Clerk to officially communicate their resolution to the Governor for further action. Lawmakers expressed optimism that the state government would consider the proposal favorably and take actionable steps towards its implementation.

In their collective view, the call for free and compulsory education represents a vital investment in human capital, one that will shape the social and economic future of Imo State for decades to come.