Akwa Ibom SUBEB announces recruitment policy shift
The Akwa Ibom State Universal Basic Education Board (AKSUBEB) has announced a significant change in its teacher recruitment policy, now requiring that teachers be selected and assigned based on their local areas of residence. This initiative aims to reduce teacher absenteeism and minimize lengthy commutes that can hinder classroom productivity.
During a Ministerial Media Briefing on Education in Uyo, AKSUBEB Executive Chairman Anietie Etuk highlighted the challenges posed by lengthy distances teachers must travel to their schools. He emphasized that the upcoming recruitment exercise in 2026 will implement this new approach.
“From now on, we will promote local recruitment. For example, a teacher residing in Ikot Ekpene will not be assigned to a school in Uyo. Teachers will work in their immediate areas,” Etuk said.
In addition to the recruitment changes, the board plans to adopt a “whole-school intervention model” aimed at addressing infrastructural deficits in schools. This strategy will involve significant upgrades for selected schools, including perimeter security fencing, clean water supply, modern sanitation facilities, solar lighting, and on-site housing for teachers.
Prof. Ubong Essien Umoh, the Commissioner for Education, elaborated on ongoing state investments designed to enhance school enrollment and improve academic performance. These include scholarship awards, bursaries, and subsidies for examination fees.
Commissioner for Information Aniekan Umanah clarified that funding allocated for capital infrastructure through the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) is distinct from funding for teacher gratuities, matching grants, or direct student bursaries.
