Edo State is gearing up for the commencement of the 2024/2025 academic session, with a firm resumption date set for Monday, September 9, 2024.
The Ministry of Education, in conjunction with the Directorate of Educational Quality and Accountability, has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines that all private schools in the state are required to follow.
This initiative aims to ensure consistency and quality in educational standards across the region.
The announced guidelines emphasize the importance of adhering to the mandatory resumption date, ensuring that academic activities commence uniformly on the specified date.
A significant focus is placed on the eligibility criteria for students, particularly concerning the Middle Basic Assessment.
According to the guidelines, students must be at least 11 years old to participate in this evaluation, and schools are reminded that pupils who were ineligible this year must be promoted to Primary 6 rather than JSS 1.
In an effort to standardize educational progression, the directive clearly states that no skipping from Primary 5 to JSS 1 will be permitted.
Additionally, schools are required to offer a full range of classes from KG 1-3 to Basic 1-9, covering both primary and junior secondary levels. The guidelines also specify appropriate entry ages for Kindergarten and Primary 1, ensuring that children are placed in age-appropriate classes.
Textbook selection is another critical area addressed in the guidelines. Schools must ensure that the textbooks used are suitable for the respective class levels and not of a higher grade, thereby aligning with the national policy on education.
“Any deviation from the prescribed harmonized academic calendar and guidelines will result in a substantial penalty, with fines reaching up to Two Million Naira.”
This comprehensive directive, signed by Rosaline Osemetiti Okosun, Ph.D., Acting Director General of the Directorate of Educational Quality & Accountability, underscores the state’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards and uniformity across all private schools.
Compliance with these guidelines is crucial for fostering an equitable and efficient educational environment in Edo State.
