Dr. Ijeoma Ekumankama makes history: First Unity school principal to be named best school administrator in Nigeria

In a historic achievement, Dr. Mrs. Ijeoma Ekumankama, the Principal of Federal Government College Nise, has been awarded the 2023 President’s Teachers and Schools Excellence Award (PTSEA) as the Best School Administrator in Nigeria under the Federal Unity Colleges category. This recognition marks the first time a Principal from any Unity school in the southeast has received this prestigious award.

The award was presented to Dr. Mrs. Ekumankama during the 2023 World Teachers’ Day Celebration held at the Eagles Square in Abuja. This recognition highlights her exceptional administrative qualities and her significant impact as a school administrator.

Various dignitaries and educational officials, including the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chima-Udeh attended the ceremony. Dr. Ekumankama received a star prize of a brand-new car, emphasizing the magnitude of her achievement.

The President’s Teachers and Schools Excellence Award
The President’s Teachers and Schools Excellence Award is an initiative integrated into the Annual World Teachers Day celebration. It aims to reward excellence in the education sector by recognizing school administrators, effective schools, and outstanding teachers nationwide. The selection process for the awardees is based on objective, evidence-based, transparent, and rigorous criteria.

Dr. Mrs. Ijeoma Ekumankama, a scholar with a Ph.D. in educational administration and planning, is known for her impeccable personal and professional record. Her leadership has had a transformative impact on Federal Government College Nise.

Under her guidance, the academic performance of the college has significantly improved. Her commitment to the all-round development of students, including their cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains, is evident in her approach to education. She places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, leading to the revitalization of clubs and societies within the school.

Dr. Ekumankama’s administration also focused on enhancing the learning environment through renovation, upgrades, and new construction. This resulted in a more conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning. Many of these infrastructural improvements were funded through internally generated revenue (IGR).

Her integrity and collaborative approach have attracted various intervention projects to the college, and her management team is recognized for its resourcefulness, innovation, and creativity.

In the realm of security, the college introduced an initiative called SODA (Security/Safety, Orderliness, Discipline, and Accountability) – the first of its kind in any Unity school. This innovative approach includes measures such as the installation of CCTV cameras, improved lighting through solar-powered street lights, and enhanced visitor regulation, all contributing to the safety and security of students.

A Grateful and Honored Leader
Dr. Mrs. Ijeoma Ekumankama expressed her gratitude for the award, attributing it to the support of her family, the school staff, and her critics. She recognized that her critics had played a role in her growth as an administrator, making her even more resilient and effective in her role.

Dr. Ijeoma Ekumankama’s historic achievement as the Best School Administrator in Nigeria underscores her dedication to quality education and her unwavering commitment to the holistic development of students. Her leadership and innovative initiatives have transformed Federal Government College Nise into a standout institution, and her accolade is well-deserved.

anaedoonline.ng