EDUCATION
Widespread Vandalism Rock Abia Schools as OYC Monitors Resumption, Distributes Writing Materials
Following resumption of schools in Abia, the State Chapter of the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), led by its president, Comrade Eugene Okonta has urged pupils to embrace discipline and live by values that would make them responsible citizens.
Okonta who was on a monitoring and sensitization visit to World Bank Model Primary School and Isieke Central School in Umuahia North Local Government Area, also distributed educational materials to the pupils.
He noted that OYC’s sensitization visits were aimed at both motivating pupils and drawing the government’s attention to pressing infrastructural challenges in schools.
He expressed satisfaction with the turnout of pupils and the commitment of teachers during the visit.
The OYC president advised the pupils to be good ambassadors, avoid cultism, drugs, fighting, and examination malpractice, while respecting parents, teachers, and constituted authorities.
He emphasised the importance of prayer, hard work, and exemplary conduct, describing teachers as “molders of society” who deserve respect.
Meanwhile, the team observed widespread vandalism in the schools visited with headteachers lamenting the theft of windows, roofing sheets, and other critical facilities that have left classrooms inhabitable and learning conditions deteriorating.
World Bank Model Primary School 1
The headmistress of World Bank Model Primary School, Comrade Queen Okoroafor, alongside other school leaders, stressed that vandalism was making the schools unsafe and unattractive for teaching and learning.
They expressed worry that burglars had broken into offices, carted away steel windows, and damaged roofing sheets, while youths playing football within the premises have further weakened school structures.
They noted that these activities are undermining the learning environment.
Responding, the Education Secretary of Umuahia North Local Government Education Authority, Mrs Florence Umezuruike, confirmed that names of schools in dilapidated conditions had been submitted to the state government for urgent attention.
OYC President Eugene Okonta distributing writing materials to pupils
Mrs Umezuruike disclosed that renovation efforts were ongoing and assured that schools not yet reached would soon benefit.
She, however, condemned the activities of vandals who recently broke into the headmistress’ office at World Bank Model Primary School after breaching a collapsed fence, stealing windows and other items.
Representatives of the schools appreciated the intervention of OYC, noting that the distribution of learning materials would boost the morale of learners.
They also commended the effort as complementary to Governor Alex Otti’s educational programmes and the recent initiative by the governor’s wife to equip pupils with study materials.