In a renewed drive to strengthen the implementation of the newly approved Cross River State Education Reforms, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Content, Amb. Awatt Caleb Ekpenyong, has met with the Commissioner for Education, Senator (Prof.) Stephen Odey, to formalize a partnership between the Office of the SA Local Content and the Ministry of Education.
During the meeting in Calabar, Amb. Awatt who visited alongside some of the Marshals officially presented policy documents and operational frameworks of the Education Marshals Initiative: a flagship project inspired by the People’s First Mantra of the Governor, His Excellency Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, designed to complement the state’s comprehensive reforms aimed at raising educational standards, curbing street truancy, and safeguarding the future of Cross River children.
Amb. Awatt emphasized that the Education Marshals were conceived to “bridge the gap between policy and practice,” by ensuring every school-age child is in class and learning effectively. “Education is not just about building classrooms,” he stated, “it’s about building character, protecting the dreams of our children, and securing the moral fabric of our society.”
Commissioner Odey commended the initiative, describing it as “a timely and visionary tool that will reinforce the enforcement and monitoring arm of the Ministry.” He added that the Ministry is ready to work hand-in-hand with the Education Marshals to ensure full compliance with the new education policies; including the ban on lessons after 2:00 PM, uniform academic calendar, and the creation of Anti-Drug and Anti-Bullying Clubs in schools.
In his remarks, the Commissioner noted, “Governor Bassey Otu has given us a clear mandate: to protect our children’s right to quality education. This collaboration with the Office of the SA Local Content is a practical reflection of that commitment. Together, we will make Cross River a model of disciplined, inclusive, and globally competitive education.”
The meeting concluded with both offices agreeing to a joint implementation framework that will deploy Education Marshals across the state’s schools and communities to monitor attendance, enforce compliance with reforms, and link out-of-school children to scholarship opportunities through the Citizens Academy.
Amb. Awatt reaffirmed his commitment to the cause, stating, “The People’s First Government is not just reforming education; we are reforming the future. When our children are in school, our streets are safer, our economy grows stronger, and our dreams for a better Cross River become reality.”
With this partnership, Cross River State is solidifying its position as a national model in education policy innovation; where governance, compassion, and accountability unite to nurture a generation ready to learn, lead, and build.
