By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Benue State Government has approved the commencement of the 9-3-4 system of education in the state.

The Director General of the Benue State Education Quality Assurance Agency, BEQA, Dr. Terna Francis who made this known when he featured on ‘Perspective’,  a live Agate Radio/TV programme monitored in Makurdi, said the system of education would commence in September 2024.

He said the policy endorsed by the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management, and the Benue State Education Quality Assurance Agency (BEQA) “is to equip learners with practical skills for self-reliance after Basic Nine.”

He pointed out that “certification after Upper Basic will be a prerequisite for entry into Post Basic to ensure a smooth transition for students into the senior secondary school.”

The Director General reiterated the commitment of BEQA to training teachers and the implementation of innovative teaching methodologies like Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) to enhance individual learners’ progress in school.

He lauded Governor Hyacinth Alia’s dedication to uplifting and revitalizing public schools in the state and urged all stakeholders to key into the administration’s laudable initiative.

While noting that Governor Alia was interested in restoring the lost glory of public schools in the state, Dr. Francis urged parents to prioritize their children’s education by ensuring prompt school resumption.

He also clarified the issue of WAEC/NECO supervision nominations saying it was exclusive to government-employed teachers and aimed at stemming examination malpractices.