The Abia State government has warned public school teachers against absenteeism, misconduct, and negligence, promising strict disciplinary actions including dismissal for offenders. The warning was issued by Lydia Onuoha, Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), during a briefing in Umuahia on Tuesday.
Onuoha expressed concern over rising cases of irregular attendance among teachers despite the efforts of Governor Alex Otti’s administration to improve their welfare. She noted that teachers now receive salaries promptly, overdue promotions have been approved, and a 27.5% Teachers Special Salary (TSS) has been implemented.
She stressed that any teacher found neglecting duty would face queries, suspension, or dismissal under the Public Service Rules and Teachers Code of Conduct. “The government will not hesitate to act in the interest of the children and the future of our state,” Onuoha said.
To enforce discipline, ASUBEB plans to introduce biometric attendance systems in schools to track teacher attendance. Unannounced visits and audits will be conducted regularly, and monthly attendance reports will be submitted by headteachers to local education authorities and ASUBEB for monitoring.
The government aims to ensure teachers fulfill their responsibilities and uphold the trust placed in them to educate the future generation.
