The Edo state government has commenced revamping of 230 public schools across the 18-local government areas, as Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) begins review of contract bids.
According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Basic Education, and Acting Chairperson, Edo SUBEB, Dr. Joan Osa-Oviawe, the renovation work will include various levels of repairs and/or overhaul in the 230 schools.
She stated that the Governor Godwin Obaseki administration intends to renovate over 1,200 public schools in the state, but that the first batch of 230 schools are captured in the pilot phase of the exercise.
“The schools were selected to represent all wards in the state. Wards with higher population have more schools captured for renovation,” she said. “The second phase of the exercise will include schools that are in deplorable state, requiring major re-construction work or complete overhaul,” she added.
She noted that the bidding was carried out openly before contractors so that those bidding for contracts will have first-hand details for each bid and exact fund allocated.
Oviawe said a technical committee was set up to review the process and ensure the biding was transparent and done in line with laid down procedures, adding that the committee is expected to make recommendations for final selection of contractors.
She hinted that the governor’s drive to improve access to quality basic education is to build a solid base for the revival of the education sector, noting, “a standard primary school in Edo State should have perimeter fencing; access to electricity powered through renewable solar energy; water supply; play ground; furniture; toilet facilities; and mini-library for each classroom.”
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