Okpebholo launches bold reforms to reposition Edo education

Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has unveiled a far-reaching roadmap to transform the state’s education sector, promising access to quality and future-driven learning for every child.

The reforms, anchored by Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, are designed to reverse decades of neglect and reposition education as the foundation of Edo’s long-term growth.

Under the plan, dilapidated schools are being rebuilt into modern learning centres with STEM laboratories, functional classrooms, sanitation facilities, and teaching aids. Through the EduRescue Initiative, out-of-school children are being reintegrated with free books and materials to ensure equity.

Central to the reforms is investment in teachers, who are being recruited, trained, and digitally empowered. Tablets and standardised lesson scripts are now being deployed to enhance uniform, high-quality teaching across the state.

“No education system can rise above the quality of its teachers. That is why we are investing in them like never before,” Dr. Iyamu said.

The administration is also integrating vocational training. Every junior secondary school graduate will now obtain a trade certification alongside academic learning. Technical colleges in Igarra, Irrua, and Benin are being revitalised, while a new National College is under construction in Ovia.

To restore integrity, unregulated “miracle centres” and mushroom schools are being shut down, while partnerships with WAEC and NECO are tightening the fight against examination malpractice.

Parents, officials say, are regaining confidence in public schools as education in Edo becomes more credible, competitive, and character-driven.