The Federal Ministry of Education has launched a comprehensive nationwide monitoring and evaluation campaign aimed at eradicating ‘miracle centres’—schools notorious for facilitating examination malpractice. This decisive action underscores the ministry’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s educational system.
On-the-Spot Assessments for Maximum Impact
During a recent on-the-spot assessment at Redeemer Teap International School in Abuja, Rukayat Ibrahim, the Team Lead and Deputy Director at the Federal Education Quality Assurance Service (FEQAS), emphasized that the initiative is designed to ensure strict adherence to ethical examination practices. Unlike previous years when evaluations lasted two to three days, the new approach allows the assessment team to evaluate a school within three hours.
“This efficiency enables us to cover more schools and promptly report findings to the management for swift action. Our termly evaluation aims to enhance the quality of education in primary and secondary schools across Nigeria,” Ibrahim explained.
Historical Context and Renewed Vigilance
This initiative follows a similar campaign conducted in 2007, which exposed unethical practices and led to the blacklisting of several schools that operated as ‘miracle centres.’ These institutions were notorious for aiding and abetting examination malpractice. Consequently, the period between 2008 and 2010 became known as one of the most ethics-driven examination eras in Nigeria.
Reflecting on this history, Ibrahim reiterated the ministry’s renewed determination to eliminate such unethical practices nationwide.
Comprehensive and Inclusive Monitoring Approach
The monitoring campaign is being conducted simultaneously across all states and the Federal Capital Territory. It targets all educational institutions, including private and public schools, creches, and early childhood education centres. Yinka Amodu, another official from the FEQAS department, emphasized the importance of consistent evaluations to uphold accountability and educational standards.
“In 2007, our assessments exposed ‘kangaroo schools’ that operated without registration, employed unqualified teachers, and lacked adequate infrastructure. Regular evaluations ensure that such institutions are identified and necessary actions are taken. Without checks and balances, our education system cannot progress,” Amodu asserted.
Commitment to Quality Education
During the assessment visit, Oladimeji Yusuf, the Principal of Redeemer Teap International School, pledged to address areas of improvement highlighted by the evaluation team. He also assured that adequate facilities would be provided to enhance learning and teaching experiences.
Towards an Ethical Educational Ecosystem
The Federal Ministry of Education’s initiative is a bold step toward eradicating examination malpractice and fostering an ethical educational ecosystem. By enforcing consistent evaluations and promoting transparency, the ministry is setting a standard for educational excellence in Nigeria.
This ongoing campaign not only restores credibility to the examination process but also ensures that students receive quality education that prepares them for the challenges of the future.