Enugu’s Smart Green Schools to Begin Full Academic Session September 22

The Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB), Prof. Hyginus Okibe, has announced that the state’s Smart Green Schools will commence full academic activities on September 22, 2025.

Prof. Okibe disclosed this on Tuesday during a meeting with management and staff of the board in Enugu, where he stressed the importance of aligning with the state government’s digital education agenda.

He said the board will soon begin routine monitoring and supervision of Smart Schools across the state, noting that staff must ensure that Governor Peter Mbah’s education policies and action plans are effectively implemented.

“This period calls for personal sacrifice, hard work, perseverance, and fidelity. It will no longer be business as usual. We must work as a team, think positively, and avoid all factors that could bring basic education down in the state,” he told staff.

ICT Skills and Staff Welfare

Okibe urged teachers and administrative personnel to strengthen their ICT competencies to remain effective in the face of rapidly evolving educational demands. He commended staff for their contributions, noting that ENSUBEB has maintained a strong performance nationally in basic education.

On staff welfare, the ENSUBEB boss assured that no staff member would be neglected or denied entitlements, provided they remain diligent and sincere. He disclosed that new departments and units will soon be created within the board in line with Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) requirements. According to him, this restructuring will expand operational zones and increase benefits accruing to the board.

He further pledged that the Mbah administration would continue to uphold transparency and accountability, ensuring inclusiveness in the implementation of policies and projects.

What to Know About Smart Green Schools

Launched in 2024 by Governor Peter Mbah, Enugu’s Smart Green Schools represent a radical overhaul of the state’s basic education system. The initiative began with a pilot school at Owo in Nkanu East Local Government Area, serving as a model for the state’s 260 wards.

Unlike traditional schools, the Smart Green Schools combine technology and sustainability, featuring:

• Digital classrooms, robotics and ICT labs, and virtual learning tools.
• Solar power systems and smart farms for eco-friendly education.
• Comprehensive facilities including 25 classrooms, teacher housing, libraries, and health centers.
• Free uniforms, meals, healthcare, and learning tablets for students.

The Owo campus has already gained recognition for excellence in robotics, coding, and agriculture projects, attracting support from global development partners including UNICEF, UNESCO, and the World Bank.

The state government is now scaling up the model, with plans to establish Smart Senior Secondary Schools and vocational institutions to absorb graduates of the program.