The Edo State government has urged parents and guardians to take advantage of its free education policy by enrolling their children and wards in public schools as the new academic session begins next week.
Reiterating its resolve to enforce penalties for children kept out of school, the government said its Back To School Campaign is aimed at reducing the number of out-of-school children across the state.
Speaking during a roadshow sensitisation exercise in Benin City, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Senior Secondary School Education Board (SSEB), Dr. Maureen Ekhorangbon, reminded residents that education in the state remains free.
She called on parents to ensure their children are properly educated, stressing that the government has removed all financial barriers to access quality education.
According to her, the sensitisation campaign was designed to prepare parents and students ahead of school resumption on Monday, September 8, 2025.
Dr. Ekhorangbon also revealed that several parents had indicated interest in transferring their children from private to public schools, a development she described as a vote of confidence in the state’s education policies.
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According to her, “Early resumption in a new academic session gives room for improved grades, development of strong work ethic, and set goals for learning and achievements in specific subjects.
“Teachers are ready to engage students in activities that will foster positive school environment and grant access to quality education, thereby strengthening the education system.
“If any child in Edo is seen hacking during school hours, the parents will be arrested and disciplinary action will be taken on them.
“All we are doing is in line with the governor of the State who is prioritizing education and is revamping School in Edo State.
“I want to use this opportunity to thank all education ecosystem and other stakeholders that collaborated with SSEB in the clean and shine initiative. Most of them joined as part of their corporate social responsibility, and its quite commendable.”