The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has lauded the commitment of the State Government to the development of education sector.
The state chapter, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Alex Kalejaye, said that the role of the sector to development could not be overemphasised.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led government recently approved a N3.5 billion counterpart fund for the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to support the construction and renovation of public primary schools across the state.
The party commended the governor for not paying lips service to the reconstruction of the entire sector.
Kalejaye described primary education as the foundation from which the higher schools harvest quality materials for further grooming.
“No doubt, the primary education is a foundation; once it is solid, in terms of physical structures and teaching, the higher schools can be assured of quality harvest.
“The long years of inadequate attention, particularly to the primary schools, has almost crippled the system. In most places, pupils learn under dilapidated buildings.
“This is why the timely and generous action of our Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is worthy of appreciation. One is convinced that this noble intention would be reciprocated at the appropriate time”, the statement added.
The State chapter “noted with pride” that the APC-led government, in the last few months, has committed billions of Naira to boost facilities in the State owned universities and colleges.
The party expressed optimism that the renovation of schools, besides the ongoing recruitment of teachers, would enhance learning and improve the quality of education at the primary level.
Commenting on the approval at the weekend, the Commissioner for Education, Mr. Olaolu Akindolire, explained that the approved counterpart fund would fetch the state over N7billion for the construction and renovation of public schools across the three senatorial districts of the State.