The Commissioner condemned issues like truancy, negligence, and other misconducts shown by stakeholders, despite the significant financial investment made by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration in the education sector.
He pointed out that these problems negatively affect students’ academic performance, especially in external exams.
In a recent meeting with senior officials in the education sector, which took place in Education Districts V and VI, the Commissioner stressed that principals and vice-principals must comply with regulations and ensure they teach for 6 and 8 periods per week, respectively.
He also called for a shift in mindset regarding leadership and discipline in schools.
The Commissioner urged the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) to fulfill its duties with determination and required clear reporting of cases involving truancy, assaults, absenteeism, and improper conduct among teachers.
He made it clear that such misconduct should not be overlooked.
He emphasized that any teacher found guilty of immoral actions or engaging in examination impersonation would face penalties according to public service rules.
“Anyone who sacrifices good performance for mediocrity or is caught in examination malpractice of any kind will face the full consequences of the law,” he said.
He encouraged teachers to engage in personal training to better equip themselves to have a positive impact on their students.
Additionally, he supported the reintroduction of extracurricular activities, including the Literacy and Debating Society, Boys’ Scouts, Girls’ Guides, and the Red Cross, to foster academic excellence among students.
The upcoming meeting with secondary school principals, which will occur in the six educational districts of the state, is a crucial step toward strengthening stakeholders’ commitment to improving student performance in exams.
This meeting will focus on the importance of rigorous promotional exams to ensure that only qualified students advance to higher levels based on their academic performance, thus identifying the best candidates for WASSCE.
Moreover, subject associations will be involved in developing strategies for improvement.
