Benue SUBEB Chairman urges research-based support for basic education

Grace Adagba, executive chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), has urged for research-based support for basic education in Benue State.

The Board Chairman made this known during the 2nd International Conference and Induction Ceremony of the institute held at Fr. Adasu University, Makurdi.

She was honoured with the prestigious Award of Excellence by the Empirical Research Institute of Nigeria (ERIN) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to research, academic development, and evidence-based practice.

The statement was contained in a press release made available by Msughter John Ataigbough, special assistant to the Executive Chairman on Corporate Communications and Community Engagements.

Adagba highlighted the critical role of research in shaping effective educational policies, emphasising that the achievements of SUBEB in expanding access to basic education, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and improving teaching and learning outcomes have been firmly guided by evidence drawn from local realities.

Adagba further noted that the conference theme, ‘Africanizing Research Methods for Sustainable Economic Growth and Entrepreneurship Empowerment,’ has already been domesticated by the Government of Benue State under the leadership of His Excellency, Hyacinth Iormem Alia through practical interventions. These include the construction and renovation of schools, recruitment of qualified teachers, and improvement of learning environments, all aimed at addressing immediate challenges in the Benue education sector and promoting inclusive educational development.

While appreciating Empirical Research Institute of Nigeria (ERIN) for honouring her with the prestigious Award of Excellence in recognition of her outstanding contributions to research, academic development, and evidence-based practice, the Chairman expressed hope that empirical research generated by scholars and shared through ERIN’s conferences will continue to guide policy directions for SUBEB and Nigeria at large, ensuring education policies remain evidence-based, responsive, and impactful.

Following the award ceremony, the Executive Chairman paid a visit to Timothy Alabar, vice chancellor of Fr. Adasu University, Makurdi, to congratulate him on his recent appointment. During the visit, Adagba commended the VC for his integrity and leadership, while exploring opportunities for collaboration between the university and SUBEB, particularly in leveraging research to inform policies that improve learning outcomes in the state’s primary schools.

She also discussed the condition of the BSU Staff primary school and suggested potential support from SUBEB that could revamp its facilities.

The Vice Chancellor welcomed the partnership, noting that the Faculty of Education currently manages the school. He lauded the developmental strides of Adagba at SUBEB, describing her as a role model for educational leadership.