Agbu Kefas, the governor of Taraba State, has approved the payment of N50,000 in medical allowance to members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) stationed in schools throughout the state.
Zainab Usman, the state’s commissioner for information and reorientation, announced this in a statement on Sunday.
She added that the governor also sanctioned N25,000 in term accommodation allowances and N10,000 in monthly state government support for the NYSC members.
She stated that he granted the permission due to the significant increase in school enrollment as a result of the government’s declaration of free basic education, uniforms, and other learning resources.
“The surge in new enrollments witnessed in our primary and secondary schools over the past ten working days has necessitated immediate action,” Mrs. Usman said.
According to reports, there has been a surge in enrollment in schools across the state as a result of the free education policy introduced by the governor.
Isa Mohammed, a teacher who teaches at the Salihu Dogo Primary School, Jalingo, told newsmen that the school has enrolled over 300 new pupils since resumption last Monday.
“As an emergency response to the education situation, His Excellency has approved significant allowances for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in Taraba State schools, and they include an additional ten thousand naira that will be added to their monthly allowance,” Mrs. Usman continued.
“A one-time payment of fifty thousand naira as a medical allowance An accommodation allowance of twenty-five thousand naira per term, totaling seventy-five thousand naira for three terms.
“Also, Exceptional NYSC members who distinguish themselves while serving in schools will be offered automatic employment opportunities.”
She said: “Uniforms, shoes, socks, and books will be made available by January to support students in their pursuit of education.
“During this term, an ICT-based registration system will be introduced. This will apply to teachers and both new and returning students. Ensuring that they are registered will guarantee the provision of essential school materials upon their arrival.
“Schools that have reached their maximum capacity in terms of facilities will implement a shifting system temporarily while additional buildings are provided to meet the increasing demand.
“In the coming year, the state government will cover the examination fees for all SS3 students, enabling them to write both WAEC and NECO examinations. Exceptional students will be eligible for sponsorships and scholarships.
“Also, adult learners seeking new enrollment should be directed to the various mass education centres, ensuring accessibility to education for all.”
She further disclosed that the state governor has tasked the state’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to ensure prompt implementation of the new measures approved by the state government.
