By Njide Ezeonyejiaku 

The opening ceremony and official Flag-off of Anambra statewide Joint Orientation for JS1, SS1 and transferred secondary school students of the state secondary schools, 2024/2025 has ended with a call on the students to adapt to the changes that accompany the transition from one phase of education to another.

The event held at Maria Regina Model Comprehensive Secondary School, Nnewi was organised by the Post Primary Schools Service Commission, PPSSC, and the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board, ASUBEB.

In a remark, the Chairman, PPSSC, Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu urged parents to complement the efforts of the government and the school authorities by ensuring that their children and wards are provided with the essential learning materials that can enhance their learning experience.

According to Prof. Ikediugwu, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has introduced an era of free, qualitative and compulsory education, reminding the students that education remains the foundation needed to drive positive change.

On her part, the Executive Chairman, ASUBEB, Dr. Vera Nkiru Nwadinobi in her address advised the students to embrace the transition with openness and resilience; familiarise themselves with school rules and regulations; cultivate positive relationships with their peers and teachers; and prioritise academic excellence, while shunning maladaptive behaviours.

While welcoming the new students to the new phase of their educational pursuit, the ASUBEB boss noted that the shift from primary to secondary school is usually followed by changes in environment, curriculum and expectations which could cause anxiety, stress and disruptive behaviours, pointing out that a clear understanding of these potential challenges would help the students navigate better.

"Remember, education is the cornerstone and key for personal growth and overall development. I encourage you to maximise this opportunity which will eventually make you productive at home and exportable abroad as envisioned by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR for you at no cost", Dr Nwadinobi concluded.

In their respective welcome addresses, the Zonal Director of Education, PPSSC, Nnewi Zone, Mrs Mary Umennadi and the Principal, Maria Regina Model Comprehensive Secondary School, Nnewi, Mrs Chika Ilomuanya observed that orientation programme for new students gives them the opportunity to embrace growth and also help them cope with their new academic and social environment.

In attendance were school Principals, officials of PPSSC and ASUBEB, Guidance Counselors, the clergy, parents and students.

The joint orientation ceremony with the theme: "Education: a Bedrock of Societal Transformation" featured lectures by resource persons such as: Dr. Uche Edum, Barr. Nathaniel Anaedo, Mrs Amaechi Morah and Mr. Echezona Nwokwu; with question and answer session, ceremonial admission of oath to the students, welcome song, and Zulu dance.