EDUCATION
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION 2026: THE POWER OF YOUTH IN CO-CREATING EDUCATION — A NEW DAWN FOR ABIA
On this auspicious occasion of the International Day of Education 2026, celebrated under the global theme “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education,” I join millions of voices across the world to reaffirm our collective belief that education remains the strongest tool for personal growth, social progress, and sustainable development.
In Aba North Local Government Area, and indeed across Abia State, this theme resonates deeply with our present reality. Today’s youth are no longer passive recipients of knowledge; they are active partners, innovators, and drivers in shaping an education system that is inclusive, relevant, and future-ready. Their energy, creativity, and digital fluency are powerful assets that must be harnessed in building an education sector that truly prepares our children and young people for the demands of a rapidly changing world.
Under the visionary and people-centred leadership of His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, Abia State is witnessing a historic transformation in the education sector. The present administration has placed education at the very heart of governance, not merely as a social service, but as a strategic investment in the future of our state.
One of the most impactful milestones of this reform agenda is the employment of qualified teachers, aimed at restoring professionalism, improving teaching quality, and reducing the burden on existing staff across public schools. This deliberate intervention is already translating into better learning outcomes and renewed confidence in the public education system.
Equally commendable is the Governor’s commitment to free and accessible education, particularly at the basic level. By removing financial barriers that once kept many children out of school, the Abia State Government has reaffirmed the principle that every child, irrespective of background, deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Across primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, massive investments are being made in classroom rehabilitation, modern school infrastructure, and improved learning environments. Dilapidated structures are giving way to safe, conducive, and student-friendly facilities that inspire learning and creativity. These improvements extend beyond classrooms to include laboratories, libraries, and other essential academic facilities that support holistic education.
Importantly, the educational reforms of this administration recognize the central role of young people. By encouraging youth participation, innovation, and stakeholder engagement, the government is creating space for students and young graduates to contribute ideas, embrace technology, and co-create solutions that strengthen teaching and learning processes.
As Mayor of Aba North Local Government Area, I reaffirm our unwavering support for these transformative policies. At the local government level, we remain committed to complementing state efforts by promoting school enrolment, supporting community-based education initiatives, and amplifying youth voices in educational planning and development.
On this International Day of Education, I call on parents, teachers, traditional institutions, private sector partners, and most especially our young people, to join hands in sustaining this momentum. Education is a shared responsibility, and the future we desire for Abia State can only be achieved when we empower our youth to lead, innovate, and co-create the education system they deserve.
Together, under purposeful leadership and with the boundless power of our youth, Abia is not just reforming education, we are redefining it for generations to come.
Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke,
Mayor, Aba North LGA
24-01-2026