Methodist Church Blames Govt Policies for Educational, Social Problems

Ijendu Iheaka

The Methodist Church Nigeria, has blamed government’s policies which elevated certificates over character and skills development in schools for Nigeria’s ethically-challenged educational system and source of many social problems.

The Methodist Archbishop of Aba Archdiocese, Most Rev Godfrey Agupusi said this in Aba on Wednesday during a press briefing announcing the beginning of events marking Methodist High School, Aba’s 25th anniversary.

He condemned the educational system which had pushed parents into forging, buying results and engaging in examination malpractices for their children for being a wrong approach.

The Archbishop said the Methodist church which believes in “proper learning and training” with “moral upbringing and skills development” established its High School in Aba to transform lives.

“Our society is decaying and swallowing our young people but we set out to use this institution to chart a new course for them.” Agupusi said.

He said the school is accredited for major national examinations, won prizes at Nigerian Stock Exchange essay competitions, Mathematics Olympiads, Poetry and is acknowledged for being free from exam malpractices.

Agupusi said that the the Silver Jubilee celebration will reflect the institution’s 25 years existence, resilience, and triumphs and honouring its founding vision and heritage.

The Archbishop said the celebratory events will culminate in the launch of a N500 million development fund for the school in October.

Agupusi noted that the N500 million fund will help the school move to its Ogbor Hill, Aba permanent site with fully equipped science laboratories, Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre and Vocational Skills Centre.

He said the school is training its teachers to create a competitive driving force for nurturing innovative thinkers, compassionate leaders and resilient problem-solvers.

The church also called for government’s support for mission schools stressing that with their focus being on morally sound and well educated and skilled youths, they could help restore sanity in the society.

Present at the briefing were Dr Emma Ndukwe, Chairman Governing Board, Methodist High School, Aba, Sir Uwakwe Maduka, Chairman, Organizing Committee, 25th anniversary, Methodist High School Aba.

Others are Mr John Ajuka, Laity Chairman, Elder Daniel Okoro, PTA Chairman, Mrs Rejoice Ugbor, the school Principal and Mr Lambert Igwe, an Old Student.