By Dr. Nkiru Onuorah
The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) today handed over the newly completed Abakpa Smart School, Enugu State, to Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB).
The UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, ably represented by Architect Shehu Rufa, Southeast Zonal Consultant for UBEC, performed the handover ceremony at the Smart School compound, Abakpa.
The ultra-modern, air-conditioned edifice was officially presented to the ENSUBEB Executive Chairman, Associate Professor Hyginus Banko Okibe, in the presence of dignitaries, stakeholders, and members of the host community.
The ceremony drew wide attendance, including the Executive Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Pastor Beloved Dan Anike, Councillors, the President General of the surrounding communities, and the Principal of Abakpa Girls Secondary School. Party faithful and learners who also trooped out in excitement to witness the landmark event, expressed joy at the new school facility designed to ensure proper teaching and learning for improved educational outcomes.
In his remarks, Architect Shehu Rufa, who represented the UBEC Executive Secretary, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to strengthening basic education delivery through modern infrastructure, while urging the State Government and ENSUBEB to ensure optimal use and maintenance of the facility. He stated that UBEC has built similar ultra-modern schools in all the states of the Federation to ensure that learners are exposed to experiential learning to enable them to tap into the world’s best academic practices.
Receiving the project after thorough inspections and a few observations that needed further urgent attention, ENSUBEB Chairman, Associate Professor Okibe, described the Smart School as a testimony to the collaborative efforts between UBEC and Enugu State in advancing quality education. He assured that the Board would deploy the facility for the purpose for which it was built—enhancing digital literacy, innovation, and academic excellence among learners.
The high point of the occasion was a guided tour of the Smart School facilities, where guests inspected the classrooms, ICT laboratories, libraries, and interactive learning spaces. The sight further confirmed the school as a model for 21st-century learning.
The Abakpa Smart School now stands as a beacon of hope for learners in Enugu State, symbolizing the government’s huge investment in education and commitment to producing globally competitive citizens.