The Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere has enjoined Schools participating in the Agricultural Education Training Programme (AETP) to adhere to implementation guidelines of the programme to ensure its success in the State.
The SUBEB Boss made the charge on Tuesday at the conference hall of the Board’s Headquarters in Asaba while declaring open a One-Day Sensitisation exercise for public primary and junior secondary schools under the 2023 Agriculture Educational Training Programmefor stakeholders.
The Chairman, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Sir Byron Unini, described the AETP as a practical and transformative initiative aimed at bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on agricultural experience in schools.
He emphasized that the Programme was designed to equip learners with entrepreneurial skills and stimulate self- employment, while also promoting dignity of labour.
Mariere further disclosed that 40 schools participated in the programme, which included both primary and junior secondary schools across the State.
He noted that the programme was learners-centered, and advised that learners must be carried along during all processes to keep them abreast with the whole practices.
Meanwhile, the SUBEB Chairman has commended the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering commitment to advancing education in the State. He lauded the governor for his prompt payment of the State’s counterpart fund which enabled the Stateto access the general fund for the programme.
Mariere also expressed gratitude to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) for its continued support for Basic Education in the State.
Speaking earlier in a welcome address, Director,Academic Services, Mrs. Francisca Okpeh highlighted the importance of agriculture in societal development, noting that the AETP offers learners the opportunity to become self-reliant and contribute to nation-building. She also said the schools benefiting from the programme would continue to increase each year, adding that the programme advocates for schools to own their own farms.
Responding on behalf of participants, Mrs. Lesley Etenero appreciated the Chairman for this laudable initiative to revive school farms, even as she pledged that they would ensure the sustenance of the Programme in the State.
