As part of activities marking the 2025 International Children’s Day, the Young Progressives Party (YPP) Gubernatorial Candidate for Anambra State, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has pledged to revitalise public schools through targeted investments in both human capital and infrastructure.
Speaking through his media office, Sir Paul stressed that no meaningful development can occur without prioritising public education.
“It is impossible to invest in the future or achieve sustainable economic prosperity without bold and deliberate investments in our public education system,” he stated.
Sir Paul noted that nearly two-thirds of all students in Anambra are enrolled in public primary and secondary schools, yet these institutions remain largely neglected.
“Infrastructure in many public schools is either decayed or decaying, and a number of teachers are out of touch with modern teaching methods. As a result, many students struggle to compete academically or meet basic knowledge expectations,” he said.
He also recalled the golden era of public education:
“Three decades ago, it was a thing of pride to attend a public school. A First School Leaving Certificate could secure a job in the civil service due to the quality of education received. Sadly, years of underinvestment have reversed those gains, turning many public schools into breeding grounds for societal ills rather than centres of learning. If elected, I will prioritise the overhaul of public education. Infrastructure must be modernised, and teachers are properly incentivised to deliver age-appropriate and impactful learning.”
Sir Paul, who is also the founder of Olivia University in Burundi, a science-focused institution, underscored the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
“ As an educator, I understand the importance of STEM education in propelling societal growth. My administration will place special emphasis on STEM education at both the primary and secondary levels to redirect the minds of Anambra children toward solution-driven learning, innovation, and creativity from an early age.”
In his closing remarks, Sir Paul extended warm felicitations to all students of Anambra extraction, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence, as education remains the surest path to success. He also expressed deep appreciation to teachers across the state for their selfless and invaluable service, often rendered under challenging conditions.