Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, has mandated that teachers employed by the government be promoted immediately in all senior secondary schools across the state.
Governor Fubara issued the directive while inaugurating the Chairmen and four members of the Senior Secondary Schools and Universal Basic Education Boards at the government house in Port Harcourt on Friday.
He stated that the senior cadre promotion exercise in public schools had been suspended since the section was previously led by an Acting Director, whom he felt should not have been given the duty of handling such a delicate undertaking.
The duty will now be performed by the substantive board, which is directed by an educationist named Dr. Sam Umejuru.
Governor Fubara has tasked David Briggs, the newly appointed Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Board, to build upon the foundation established by his predecessor and the previous board members. Briggs, who previously served as Chairman of the Senior Secondary Schools’ Board, has been challenged to diligently fulfill his role and lay a strong educational foundation for the state’s children.
The governor emphasized that a child’s academic excellence begins with their exposure at the Universal Basic Education (UBE) levels. He expressed confidence in the abilities of the chairmen and members of both boards, citing their extensive experience in public and civil service.
Governor Fubara highlighted that many of the appointees, especially those on the Senior Secondary Schools’ Board, are seasoned educators and administrators who were principals and vice principals during his early career as a civil servant. He noted that these appointees have had the opportunity to supervise him, further attesting to their qualifications.
Addressing the members, Dr. Sam Emejuru, Chairman of the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, thanked the governor for entrusting them with such significant responsibilities. He assured the governor that they would carry out their duties efficiently, diligently, and fairly, recognizing the governor’s passion for education.
Dr. Emejuru stated, “We are committed to not disappointing you. We understand the importance of this responsibility and will deliver as you have trusted us to do.”
In his speech, David Briggs, Chairman of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board, expressed gratitude to the governor and God for the confidence placed in them. He pledged their unwavering commitment, stating, “We will not disappoint you, your government, or the people of Rivers State. We will support your vision for educational excellence in Rivers State.”
The newly inaugurated members of the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board are Dr. Sam Emejuru (Chairman), Francis Jacob, Dr. Grace Jaja, Jemina Margaret Briggs, and Love Aguma. For the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. David Theophilus Briggs serves as Chairman, with Nwuke Anucha, Dr. Alom Anyanya Austin-Mba, Dr. Walson Ominini as members, and Ibiere Pepple as Secretary.