Edo teachers directed to cut grass despite govt’s denial

A leaked circular from the Edo Secondary Education Board (SSEB), dated August 27, has revealed that teachers in senior secondary schools were instructed to cut grass and clean school premises ahead of the 2025/2026 academic session, contradicting the state government’s denial of such directives.

Signed by Obarisiagbon M. I. on behalf of SSEB Executive Chairman Dr. Maureen Ekhorangbon, the document instructed Executive Principals to oversee the cleanup to maintain a “clean, hygienic, and safe” environment.

“All Executive Principals are directed to take off the grasses and clean up their schools ahead of resumption,” the circular stated, adding that the exercise aims to instill discipline and voluntary service in students.

Teachers were scheduled to begin on September 1, with students joining on September 8. Principals were required to submit photographic evidence of compliance to the SSEB’s “integrity WhatsApp page” by September 5.

The directive has sparked controversy, as it appears to validate concerns raised by civil society groups about teachers being forced into menial tasks.

The Edo Ministry of Education had previously dismissed these claims, labeling them “unfounded” and describing any such activities as voluntary corporate social responsibility.

Schools in Edo are set to resume on Monday for the new academic session.