EDUCATION
Abia State Rewards Excellence in Science Education as Government Honours Outstanding Teachers and Students at January 2026 Online Science Teachers’ Championship
The Abia State Government has presented cash awards to outstanding teachers and students who emerged winners at the January 2026 edition of the Online Science Teachers’ Championship (STC), in a move aimed at reinforcing its commitment to educational excellence and the advancement of science and technology in the state.
The competition, organized by the State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in collaboration with ASSPPAA-ISBORS for both private and public schools, was designed to promote excellence in science education across Abia State, while also identifying, nurturing and rewarding exceptional talents in science-related disciplines.
Presenting the cash prizes to the winners in his office, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, congratulated the champions for bringing pride to the state through their dedication, intellectual capacity and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
He described their achievements as a clear reflection of the Abia State Government’s renewed focus on education under the leadership of Governor Dr. Alex Otti, stressing that science education remains a cornerstone for societal growth, innovation and technological advancement.
“The outcome of this competition aligns with the transformational agenda of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, in repositioning the education sector in Abia State. Science is central to development, and we must continue to encourage our teachers and students to excel in this field,” Ubochi stated.
The Commissioner further assured that the Ministry would continue to support initiatives that stimulate interest in science subjects, improve teaching quality and provide platforms for teachers and students to test their knowledge and skills at competitive levels.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Uchechukwu Kalu, emphasized that education remains the bedrock of development in every society. She commended the award recipients for their courage, discipline and excellence throughout the competition, noting that their success serves as a source of motivation for other teachers and students across the state.
Mrs. Kalu encouraged the winners to remain focused and committed to their academic and professional pursuits, while urging schools to sustain a culture of excellence that prioritizes quality teaching and continuous learning.
Also speaking, the Director of Science, Technical and Vocational Education in the Ministry, Lady Joy Uruabia-Eleke, alongside the Public Relations Officer of ASSPPAA-ISBORS, Ambassador Uche Marvelous-Okoro, explained that the championship was designed to identify and nurture talents in science subjects while strengthening the quality of teaching and learning in schools.
They added that the initiative also seeks to foster healthy academic competition, promote innovation among teachers, and inspire students to develop strong interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Among the award recipients were Mr. Chidi Madu of Mbala High Community Secondary School, who emerged as the Best Teacher in Chemistry; Master Alexander Okereke of Greenish Academy, Umuahia, who won Best Chemistry Student; and Miss Favour Okorie of Wilcox Schools, Aba, who clinched the Best Student in Physics award.
In separate interviews, the awardees expressed profound gratitude to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, ASSPPAA-ISBORS and their respective schools for providing a platform to showcase their academic abilities. They pledged to apply the knowledge and experience gained from the competition toward achieving greater academic and professional excellence.
The Online Science Teachers’ Championship forms part of the Abia State Government’s broader strategy to promote innovation, strengthen science education and inspire a new generation of scholars capable of driving sustainable development and technological progress in 
Abia State and beyond.