Anambra State Commissioner for Education Urges Mothers to Prioritize Children's Schooling Over Street Hawking

 

Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Professor Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, has issued a stern warning to mothers across the state, urging them to desist from sending their school-age children to hawk during school hours. She reminded them of the legal and social consequences of such actions, emphasizing the importance of education in securing a brighter future for their wards.

Speaking on the occasion of this year’s Mothering Sunday, Professor Chuma-Udeh passionately underscored the necessity of prioritizing children’s education, particularly that of the girl child. According to her, education is “the currency for the future,” and parents must seize every available opportunity to ensure their children receive quality education.

She further called on parents to take full advantage of the free education policy introduced by the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. The initiative, she explained, is designed to make education more accessible to all children in Anambra, ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to learning.

The Education Commissioner expressed concern over reports of some parents who, rather than sending their children to school, force them into street hawking to supplement household income. She highlighted the potential dangers of this practice, including exposure to accidents, exploitation, and the risk of dropping out of school permanently.

Professor Chuma-Udeh further addressed the moral and ethical responsibility of mothers in ensuring that their children receive a sound education. She warned against prioritizing material wealth over the future of their children, emphasizing that investments in education yield long-term benefits that surpass immediate financial gains from street trading.

In addition to cautioning parents, the Commissioner also issued a strong directive to school principals, school heads, and teachers across Anambra State, warning them against any attempts to sabotage the free education policy of the government. She reiterated the state’s commitment to implementing the policy effectively, ensuring that every child has access to quality education without facing undue financial burdens.

She made it clear that any school administrator found guilty of obstructing the free education initiative or imposing unauthorized fees on students would face severe consequences.

"This administration is committed to ensuring that no child in Anambra is denied education due to financial hardship. Any attempt by school officials to frustrate this policy will not be tolerated," she asserted.

Professor Chuma-Udeh also called on religious organizations, traditional rulers, and community leaders to join in sensitizing parents on the significance of education. She stressed that the collective effort of all stakeholders is crucial in the fight against child hawking and the promotion of school enrollment and retention.

Her message comes at a time when the government is intensifying its efforts to enhance the standard of education in the state. Governor Soludo’s administration has introduced several reforms aimed at improving infrastructure, curriculum, and teaching quality in public schools. The free education policy is one of the flagship programs designed to ensure inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for all children.

As the Commissioner’s message continues to resonate, it is expected that more parents will heed the advice and prioritize their children’s education over short-term financial pursuits. By doing so, they will be securing a brighter future not only for their children but also for Anambra State as a whole.