In a decisive move to address ongoing delays and ensure the timely delivery of the Smart School projects across Enugu State, the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB) held a series of strategic meetings with both the Engineers in its employ and the contractors engaged in the projects.
The meetings were convened to critically appraise the current status of the Smart School projects, particularly focusing on the implementation progress and payment status. The discussions highlighted a number of significant concerns, with particular emphasis on the dissatisfaction expressed over the pace at which both the Engineers and Contractors have been executing their responsibilities. The delays in project delivery, originally set to be completed by March 2024, were a central point of contention.
It was noted during the meetings that the supervisory procedures adopted by the supervising Engineers in measuring the progress of the contractors were found to be lacking. The inconsistent and often lenient assessments have led to a situation where payments made do not accurately reflect the actual work completed, further exacerbating the delays.
Assoc. Prof. Hyginus Banko Okibe, the Executive Chairman of ENSUBEB, did not mince words in expressing his displeasure with the current state of affairs. He specifically criticized the contractors who have been using the prevailing inflationary economic conditions as a justification for their failure to adhere to the agreed contract terms. The contract, which mandated the completion of structural work by March 2023, made no provision for variations, yet many contractors have attempted to leverage economic factors to excuse their non-compliance.
"The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to enhancing public basic education through infrastructural development. It is unacceptable that the progress of these vital projects is being hindered by delays that could have been avoided with proper management and execution," Assoc. Prof. Okibe stated emphatically.
He reminded the contractors that their selection was based on their proven track records and that the Governor, along with the people of Enugu State, expects nothing short of excellence. "The Governor's confidence in your competence and integrity is not to be taken lightly. Your role in these projects is critical, and the expectations are high. It is imperative that you redouble your efforts to meet these expectations."
The Chairman issued a directive mandating both the contractors and the Engineers to reassess and refine their approaches to the project. He stressed that while quality must not be compromised, the delivery timeline is equally crucial. Assoc. Prof. Okibe also reassured the attendees that the state government is aware of the challenges they face, but he urged them to respond with the dedication and tenacity that the project demands.
Present at the meetings were the Project Manager 3 (PM3), Mrs. Nwakaego Aja, all Engineers under the employ of ENSUBEB, and the contractors currently engaged in executing the Smart School projects. The discussions were intense, and the directives clear, as ENSUBEB aims to push forward with renewed vigor to meet the educational infrastructure needs of Enugu State.
The meetings mark a critical point in the Smart School project timeline, with all parties now under strict instructions to align their efforts with the state's vision for enhanced public education.
