Oyo State Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, expressed satisfaction on Monday with the impressive level of compliance demonstrated by teachers and students during the resumption for the second term of the academic calendar in the state.

While monitoring the resumption of schools in the Ibadan metropolis for the commencement of second-term academic activities, the Commissioner cautioned principals and teachers against the collection of illegal fees from students and parents. He reiterated that education is free from primary to secondary schools in Oyo State.

Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Adeniyi Olusanjo, and directors from the ministry, Prof. Adelabu encouraged students to focus on their studies, and teachers were urged to bring creativity and innovation into their teaching methods in a professional manner.

The Commissioner emphasized that the principals and teachers in all monitored schools were actively engaged in academic activities. He called upon parents who have not yet released their wards to do so promptly, as academic activities have begun in earnest. Keeping students at home, he noted, would put them at a disadvantage compared to their peers.

Prof. Adelabu remarked, “Today marks the first day of resumption in our public primary and secondary schools in Oyo State. The enthusiasm of the teachers and students is noteworthy; fortunately, based on my observations, not less than 70% of our students have resumed, and almost 97% of the staff are present in the schools. With the high morale of teachers and students, the second term will be a fruitful section for both.”

“I encourage students to stay focused on their studies, and teachers should adopt professional approaches by infusing creativity and innovation into their teaching methods. I want to emphasize to teachers that they must not charge students and parents, as education is free in Oyo State. Parents who have not yet sent their children to school should allow them to attend, as teachings and learning have already commenced in the schools.”

Schools monitored by the Commissioner and his team included Oba Akibiyi Model School, Mokola; St. Louis Grammar School, Mokola; Government Secondary School, Orita-Aperin, Ibadan, and several others.