Community Hands over Secondary School to Anambra Government

By Praise Chinecherem

Umuhu Community in Ukpor, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra state has officially handed over Umuhu Comprehensive Secondary School to the State Government under the Public-Private Community Partnership (PPCP) initiative.

Speaking during the handover ceremony at the school premises, Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh commended the community for its foresight in establishing the school.

The commissioner, represented by Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu said the gesture aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s free education policy aimed at making education accessible to all children in the state.

She expressed optimism that more communities would emulate Umuhu’s example to support the government’s educational vision.

Also speaking, Board Secretary of ASUBEB, Mrs. Ebele Mgbemena of ASUBEB, representing the Chairman, Dr. Vera Nwadinobi, lauded the community for managing the school effectively for three years before handing it over.

She assured that qualified teachers would soon be posted to the school.

Deputy Mayor of Nnewi South, Mrs. Nneja Ileka, described the handover as the fulfillment of a three-year effort, noting that the new school has eased the burden of students who previously trekked long distances to access government schools.

Speaking separately, Chairman of Umuhu Ukpor Progressive Union, who was the chairman of the occasion, Mr Chukwuemeka Akaelu and Board Chairman of the school, Mr. Edward Akaelu, said the project was motivated by desire to give every child in the community access to education.

He pledged community support for teachers through accommodation and welfare incentives.

Representing the Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), Mrs. Philomena Ezibe urged the community to maintain cordial relations with teachers and to recommend qualified locals in future recruitments.

The Head Girl, Miss Ginika Ekeh, expressed students’ appreciation to the community for nurturing the school and optimism that government takeover would bring improved learning conditions and opportunities.

The event, graced by Ministry of Education officials marked another milestone in Anambra’s PPCP initiative, showcasing how community-government collaboration continues to strengthen education across the state.