The Education Secretary of Ukwa West Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), Hon. Pastor Chukwuemeka Nwuju, has issued a strong warning to teachers across the LGA, urging them to maintain daily attendance and punctuality. He emphasized that any teacher who continues to be absent from school without valid reasons will face serious disciplinary actions.
This directive is part of the LGEA’s renewed commitment to restoring discipline, professionalism, and accountability in the basic education system in Ukwa West LGA.
In a statement, Hon. Nwuju described as “worrisome and unacceptable” the growing trend of teacher absenteeism in public schools. He stressed that such behavior undermines the core mission of education and sets a poor example for pupils.
“Any teacher who continues to be absent from school without valid justification should be ready to face the full weight of disciplinary measures,” Nwuju declared.
He reminded all headteachers and school supervisors of their roles in monitoring staff attendance and ensuring proper documentation of daily activities. He announced that the LGEA will soon begin routine and impromptu monitoring visits to schools to enforce compliance.
The Secretary linked his warning to the broader policies of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), which requires strict enforcement of daily attendance and punctuality across all basic education institutions. He noted that staff who consistently avoid their responsibilities may face queries, suspension, or dismissal—in accordance with civil service rules and the Teachers’ Code of Conduct.
Hon. Nwuju further highlighted the support teachers enjoy from the Abia State Government, stating.
“You cannot be taking salaries for work you are not doing. It is deception – both to the system and to the children you are meant to mentor. Our education friendly Governor pays all civil servants in the State on 28th of every month. Sometimes, the salary comes on the 27th of the month.
“The Governor has approved many welfare packages for teachers which include: implementation of 2022/2023 promotions, payment of the 2025 leave allowance, inclusion of TSS in the salary of teachers, provisiom of running cost for headteachers/principals etc”, he added.
The Education Secretary urged all teachers to honor their professional obligations by being present, punctual, and committed to the success of their pupils. He assured that the LGEA will recognize and reward hardworking and dedicated staff.
In closing, Hon. Nwuju called on all education stakeholders—including parents, community leaders, and School Based Management Boards (SBMCs)—to support the LGEA’s mission to promote quality education, accountability, and improved learning outcomes in Ukwa West Local Government Area.
