Schools resumed on Monday across the 18 local government areas of Cross River State, prompting a fervent call to the state government to declare a state of emergency in the education sector.
The dire state of some schools infrastructure have become of pressing concern.
ait.live visit to some public schools in the city area observed a low turnout of students during the first week of resumption.
The dismal condition of the schools, marked by insufficient manpower, lack of desks, poorly equipped science and computer laboratories, inadequate power and water supply, and absence of sanitary facilities, have significantly discouraged both students and teachers from returning.
The most alarming challenge faced by educators and learners is the existence of roofless classrooms and offices.
Principals and teachers, expressing their concerns to our correspondent, emphasized the difficulty of teaching and learning in such unconducive environment.
In response to the educators’ calls, Ekpenyong Akiba, the Special Adviser to the state governor on General Duties, acknowledged the challenges faced in the education sector.
Despite the youthfulness of the current administration, Akiba assured the public the state government’s commitment to revamp all dilapidated schools infrastructure, prioritizing those in the city area.
Additionally, the Special Adviser announced plans to address the shortage of teachers by hiring more personnel where needed.
This proactive stance aims to address the pressing issues in the education system and improve the overall learning environment.
Editor: Ena Agbanoma
