•Gov Bassey Otu
The Cross River State government has announced plans to recruit 6000 new teachers due to a shortage of educators.
Stephen Odey, the Commissioner for Education, disclosed this yesterday during a news conference in his office, where he outlined the achievements of his ministry under Governor Bassey Otu.
He said Governor Otu has reviewed the proposal to hire additional teachers, citing instances where some schools had only four or five teachers, and several departments and agencies within the ministry lacking adequate staff.
To ensure the sustainability of teacher interest, Odey also stated that various incentives would be provided, with a focus on recruiting candidates from local catchment areas, especially those residing in rural communities.
He also noted that some previously demoted teachers, due to deficiencies in qualifications, would be reinstated following academic upgrades as per directives.
Addressing concerns about cultism in schools, Odey revealed collaborative efforts with the Department of State Security (DSS) and the police to combat the issue.
