— Demands Government Intervention

By Dayo Johnson, Akure

An appeal has been made to the Ondo State government for urgent intervention in the deteriorating physical conditions of public schools across the state.

Prince Adebisi Adeniyi, the Chairman of the Old Students Association of Akure Secondary Commercial School, made this appeal while addressing reporters ahead of the school’s 60th anniversary.

Adeniyi expressed concern over the deplorable state of public schools in the state, emphasizing that these institutions require immediate attention from the government and other stakeholders in the education sector. He lamented the lack of basic infrastructural facilities and essential amenities needed for effective teaching and learning.

“Akure Secondary Commercial School is in desperate need of government attention,” he stated. The chairman urged the state government and other stakeholders to collaborate with the association in rehabilitating the school to create a conducive environment for education.

Speaking about the current conditions of the Akure Secondary Commercial School, Adeniyi noted that although the association has initiated efforts to improve the school’s infrastructure, significant challenges remain.

The anniversary theme, “Building a Legacy of Academic Leadership and Sustainable Innovation,” reflects the old students’ commitment to uplifting their alma mater. Adeniyi expressed dissatisfaction with the school’s current state but highlighted the ongoing efforts by alumni to enhance the infrastructural standards.

“We are calling on the government and other stakeholders to join us in transforming this school. The old students are already contributing significantly,” he said.

Adeniyi pointed out that the students’ performance has inspired alumni to provide support, including purchasing books and donating sports facilities. He mentioned the installation of boreholes and toilets funded by former students, stressing that government contributions have been minimal.

“Even classrooms that were reportedly renovated by the government less than three years ago are already falling apart. Education cannot be left to the government alone, which is why we seek collaboration,” he added.

He also advocated for the return of schools to their original owners, suggesting that this would lead to better management and maintenance of school facilities. “The principal cannot collect any funds for renovations, and the government is not providing any support for repairs,” he explained.

“Much of what the government claims to do remains theoretical and does not translate into practice, negatively impacting education across the board. This is why we, the old students, have decided to step in gradually to renovate the structures and restore the school’s standards.”

Adeniyi emphasized that if the government were to return the school to its original owners, it would likely be better managed. “If the school had remained with its original owners, even if they are deceased, their descendants would ensure it was not in such a state,” he stated.

The chairman also outlined some activities planned for the anniversary, including an anniversary lecture, inter-school debates, health talks, and a novelty match.