Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has implemented automated payroll system in a bid to enhance transparency and efficiency in the payment of salaries for staff and teachers.
This development was unveiled during a Radio Benue Public Awareness Programme titled: ‘Issues of the moment’, where Dr. Grace Adagba, executive chairman of SUBEB, along with other key officers, shed light on the transformative initiatives taking place at the Board.
Addressing concerns regarding salary deductions and irregularities, Dr. Adagba emphasised that the new automated system aims to streamline payroll processes and eliminate discrepancies. By centralizing payments at the Board headquarters, the system detects and addresses issues promptly, ensuring timely and accurate salary disbursements for Staff across the State. Additionally, it notifies Staff members of impending retirement dates, facilitating smoother transitions to pension benefits.
She said under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, significant strides have been made towards enhancing the welfare of educators and improving educational infrastructure.
According to her, approval has been granted for a matching grant to support the development of schools, with action plans set to be submitted to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in Abuja for further endorsement.
The interview also highlighted the remarkable achievement of the Benue Debate Team, whose victory at a prestigious competition in Jakarta, Indonesia, showcased the talent and potential of students in Benue Public Schools. Dr. Adagba attributed this success to the ongoing transformation within the Basic education sector, restoring confidence and fostering a conducive learning environment.
However, despite the positive developments, challenges persist, particularly stemming from past instances of corruption within the Board.
Director of Finance and Accounts, Mr. Samuel Akaa, revealed instances of embezzlement, including a cashier diverting over N11 million before the implementation of the automated payroll system.
He lauded the new system, saying, payroll racketeering has been significantly curtailed, with syndicates thwarted and funds safeguarded.
Director of the Digital Resource Centre, Dr. Karim Usman, emphasised the importance of accurate data management, citing the successful completion of a data verification exercise to ensure the integrity of staff records within SUBEB.
Some callers on the programmme,Mr Igbayima Akura charged the Board to establish sustainability systems to ensure continuity of programmes while Mr Daniel Utenan urged SUBEB to revive handcraft in Schools.