The annual leadership retreat for headteachers, officers-in-charge, and directors in Anambra State’s Basic Education sector has concluded, emphasizing the importance of providing quality service to the community. Held at the Archbishop Obiefuna Retreat and Pastoral Centre in Awka, the retreat focused on the theme: “Education as a Panacea for Human Capital Development: Effective and Efficient School Management as Sustaining Factors.”
This event served as a forum for retraining school administrators to address key issues affecting the implementation of educational policies and programs initiated by the state government.
Mrs. Theodora Igwegbe, the state Head of Service, addressed the participants, stressing the need for hard work and honesty in education to mitigate examination malpractice and enhance learning outcomes. She urged participants to instill these societal values in students to combat the social vices prevalent in contemporary society.
Dr. Vera Nkiru Nwadinobi, the Executive Chairman of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), highlighted the retreat’s purpose: to rejuvenate essential leadership skills among headteachers for greater efficiency in achieving basic education goals in the state. She encouraged participants to embrace positivity and dedication in their roles as they return to their schools.
The retreat featured presentations from various educational experts. Prof. Patience Egboka spoke on “School Administration and Management in Primary Schools,” describing the headteacher’s multifaceted role as a manager, community relations person, supervisor, instructor, and curriculum innovator. She advocated for ongoing in-service teacher programs, improved welfare, and sufficient funding to enhance school administration.
Dr. Bibiana Okoli presented on “Evaluation of Schools, Using Quality Assurance Indices,” defining quality assurance as a comprehensive process of monitoring and evaluating all aspects of school life based on established standards. She emphasized that human capital development is the most valuable asset in any organization.
Dr. Ndidi Okeke’s presentation on “Ethics and Values in Teaching and Learning” highlighted the importance of ethics as guiding principles and values as essential for shaping a conducive learning environment.
Mrs. Kate Ndulue discussed how the curriculum prepares learners to meet societal needs, asserting that a well-structured curriculum ensures uniformity and consistency in promoting learners’ progress.
Dr. Nwadinobi also presented on “Value Re-orientation and Stakeholders’ Role,” discussing the importance of shared values in the education system and calling for all stakeholders to embrace the values of Anambra State to foster a positive impact.
Engr. Mike Neboh delivered a paper on “Data Collection and Analysis Management in Schools,” while the retreat included a lively question-and-answer session, experience sharing, and suggestions for future improvements.
The event saw participation from key officials, including the Board Secretary, Loveline Mgbemena, permanent board members, officers-in-charge, and directors, all committed to enhancing the quality of education in Anambra State.
