By Praise Chinecherem
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has been urged to provide security in schools across the state amidst growing insecurity ahead of resumption of schools.
The appeal was made by some parents during the Friend Of Friends Schools’ graduation/21st passing out ceremony of the class of 2022 in Akamili-Umudim, Nnewi Local Government Area said the call followed growing insecurity situation in the state.
Some of the parents who preferred anonymity, claimed that pupils, especially those in the rural areas, lacked security in schools and other social amenities that would give them sense of belonging like their counterparts in urban areas.
They said, “We think the major thing these rural schools need now is security personnel, especially, in the local government areas targeted by gunmen. The governor should deployed security personnel to the schools in rural areas; and the governor should also look at community sport development where young talents are easily discovered.
“The state of insecurity in the state, especially, in and around Nnewi, Ihiala, Ekwusigo local government areas, requires security presence in public/private schools to boost the students confidence while in classroom.”
While identifying problems in rural schools to include lack of electricity, personnel, toilet facilities, game facilities, poor road network, amongst others, the parents regretted that the situation was adversely affecting teaching and learning.
“We call on governor Chukwuma Soludo to give priority attention to public/private schools in rural communities.
“We also implore Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, representing Anambra South Senatorial District and the member representing Nnewi North/South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, Honourable Chris Azogbogu, to assist as well.
“The same way, we call on public- spirited individuals and NGOs to assist the state government to provide infrastructure in schools located in rural communities.
“Friend Of Friends Schools have being in operation in Akamili-Umudim for 29-years with out access road, constant electricity supply and security.
Earlier, Proprietor of the school, Caleb Festus, challenged the graduating students to aspire to occupy enviable positions in life, pledging to continue to do his best to ensure the standard of education in the school was sustained.
