JUST IN: State government to pay corp members N85,000 stipend

Taraba state governor, Agbu Kefas, has given his approval for the payment of medical allowance in the amount of N50,000 to members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) who have been posted to schools within the state.

This information was revealed in a statement made by Zainab Usman, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation, on Sunday.

“The surge in new enrollments witnessed in our primary and secondary schools over the past ten working days has necessitated immediate action,” Mrs Usman said.

In addition to the medical allowance, the governor has also given his approval for an accommodation allowance of N25,000 per term and a monthly support of N10,000 from the state government.

This decision was made in response to the significant increase in school enrollment following the government’s implementation of free basic education, along with the provision of uniforms and other learning materials.

As a result of the governor‘s free education policy, there has been a noticeable surge in enrollment in schools throughout the state.

Isa Mohammed, a teacher at Salihu Dogo Primary School in Jalingo, informed reporters that the school has admitted over 300 new students since classes resumed last Monday.

“As an emergency response to the education situation, His Excellency has approved significant allowances for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in Taraba State schools, and they include an additional ten thousand naira will be added to their monthly allowance,” Mrs Usman continued.

“A one-time payment of fifty thousand naira as a medical allowance. An accommodation allowance of twenty-five thousand naira per term, totaling seventy-five thousand naira for three terms.

“Also, Exceptional Youth Corps members who distinguish themselves while serving in schools will be offered automatic employment opportunities.”

She said: “Uniforms, shoes, socks, and books will be made available by January to support students in their pursuit of education.

“Commencing this term, an ICT-based registration system will be introduced. This will apply to Teachers, both new and returning students. Ensuring that they are registered will guarantee the provision of essential school materials upon their arrival.

“Schools that have reached their maximum capacity in terms of facilities will implement a shifting system temporarily while additional buildings are provided to meet the increasing demand.

“In the coming year, the State Government will cover the examination fees for all SS3 students, enabling them to write both WAEC and NECO examinations. Exceptional students will be eligible for sponsorship and scholarships.

“Also, adult learners seeking new enrollment should be directed to the various Mass Education Centers, ensuring accessibility to education for all.”

She added that the state governor has tasked the state’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to ensure prompt implementation of the new measures approved by the state government.