The Abia State Government has announced plans to introduce a biometric attendance system to curb the rising cases of absenteeism among public school teachers. The new system, aimed at restoring discipline and accountability in the state’s education sector, is part of broader reforms under Governor Alex Otti’s administration.
Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed the move during a press briefing on Thursday. He explained that the biometric system will enable real-time monitoring of teachers’ presence at their duty posts and ensure that only those who show up to work get paid. According to Kanu, “This measure became necessary following disturbing reports of chronic absenteeism by some public school teachers. We cannot continue to allow a system where people earn salaries without rendering any service.”
He added that the government would not hesitate to take strict disciplinary action against any staff member who flouts the new rules, warning that consistent defaulters risk suspension or outright dismissal. The biometric attendance initiative will be rolled out across schools in phases, starting with those in urban areas, before extending to rural schools.
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