By Our Correspondent
The ongoing personnel audit conducted by the Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (CRS-SUBEB), is revealing another malaise that is bedevilling the sector in the state.
During the personnel audit of teaching and non-teaching staff of Yala and Ogoja, Local Government Education Authorities (LGEA’s) it was observed that a teacher in Yache/Gabu zone, Yala mortgaged his credentials for loan.
The teacher whose name is withheld CrossRiverWatch gathered, presented himself for the on-going personnel audit failing to present original copies of his credentials.
When enquired he revealed that they were in custody of a money lender who has refused to release them.
Upon this, Dr. Stephen Odey, Chairman Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (CRS-SUBEB), Dr. Stephen Odey condemned the habit of teachers mortgaging their certificates and other credentials in other to collect loans from private individuals.
He added that, it is wrong for teachers to mortgage their certificates to qualify for loans. Advising that those whose credentials are being held by money lenders should ask for their credentials or approach the courts to challenge the illegal act.
His words: “It is wrong for money lenders to seize teachers’ certificates on the ground of loan collection.”
He further advised teachers who needed loans to turn to the banks, rather than, subject themselves to humiliation and exploitation from illegal money lenders who are not recognised by law to give out such loans.
Odey ended by calling on teachers’ to ensure proper planning, spend according to their monthly wages, “especially now that the present administration has made payment of salaries regular in the State.” He said.
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