The Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has authorised raising the retirement age and duration of service for teachers in the state from 35 to 40 years.
This was revealed in a statement issued by his Special Assistant for New Media, Leo Ekene-Oketa.
According to him, teachers in the state will now be able to serve until the age of 65, with a commensurate increase in the duration of service to 40 years effective immediately.
He stated that extending the retirement age and duration of service for teachers demonstrates the state government’s ongoing commitment to human capital development.
According to the governor’s spokesman, retaining experienced teachers in the workforce for a longer period of time is likely to considerably improve educational quality, consequently improving kids’ overall academic performance and future prospects throughout the state.
“This extension not only recognizes the invaluable experience and expertise that seasoned educators bring to the table but also acknowledges their dedication and commitment to shaping the minds of future generations,” the statement read.
See the full statement below:
Ebonyi State Extends Teachers’ Retirement Age: A Boost for Education Sector
In a move set to redefine the landscape of education in Ebonyi State, His Excellency, the Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru , has approved a significant alteration to the retirement age and length of service for teachers in the state. This landmark decision marks a pivotal moment in the state’s commitment to educational excellence and the welfare of its educators.
Effective immediately, teachers in Ebonyi State classrooms will now have the opportunity to serve until the age of Sixty-Five (65) years, with a corresponding adjustment in the length of service to Forty (40) years. This extension not only recognizes the invaluable experience and expertise that seasoned educators bring to the table but also acknowledges their dedication and commitment to shaping the minds of future generations.
The decision to extend the retirement age and length of service for teachers underscores the state government’s unwavering commitment to investing in human capital development. By retaining experienced teachers in the workforce for a longer duration, the quality of education is expected to improve significantly, thereby enhancing the overall academic performance and future prospects of students across the state.
Furthermore, the government’s proactive approach in implementing this policy speaks volumes about its responsiveness to the evolving needs of the education sector. Recognizing the challenges faced by educators and the critical role they play in nation-building, the Governor’s approval of the new retirement age reflects a forward-thinking strategy aimed at empowering teachers and revitalizing the education system.
In light of this development, retired staff members who concluded their service from May 9, 2023, are encouraged to promptly proceed to the central payroll office at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, located at block 6, Ochudo Centenary City, Abakaliki, for recapturing and updating of their records. This administrative process ensures seamless integration into the revised retirement framework and guarantees the continued receipt of benefits and entitlements.
The announcement of the extended retirement age for teachers in Ebonyi State has been met with widespread acclaim and appreciation from various stakeholders within the education community. Chief Monday Nkwuda Nnanna, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, speaking on behalf of the Honorable Commissioner for Education, commended the Governor for his visionary leadership and commitment to educational reform.
In conclusion, the decision to extend the retirement age and length of service for teachers in Ebonyi State signifies a progressive step towards enhancing the quality and sustainability of the education sector. By prioritizing the welfare of educators and recognizing their invaluable contributions, the state government sets a precedent for other regions to emulate, ultimately paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.
Leo Ekene Oketa
Special Assistant (New Media) to the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State