By Famous Iguisi, PRO SSEB
The Chairman of the Edo State Secondary Education Board (SSEB), Miss Omonzane Ebanehita Sonia, alongside board members Alhaji Yusuf Bako and Princess Charity Iziengbe Osifo, recently conducted an inspection tour of senior secondary schools in the Benin metropolis. The visit aimed to assess the state of school infrastructure, learning facilities, and overall environment to identify areas requiring immediate intervention.
The inspection covered Army Day Secondary School, Ikpoba Hill; Queen Ede Secondary School; and Edokpolor Grammar School. Findings from the visit painted a dire picture of the state of public schools in Edo State. Many school buildings were in severe disrepair, with dilapidated structures, leaking roofs, broken furniture, and a lack of essential facilities such as science laboratories and perimeter fencing, raising serious security concerns.
The inspection team expressed deep concern over the deplorable conditions, noting that the learning environments in these schools were far from conducive. Reports of human waste, pungent odors from urine-soaked areas, and classrooms exposed to harsh weather conditions due to leaking roofs highlighted the urgency of the situation.
Reacting to the findings, Miss Omonzane Ebanehita Sonia assured stakeholders that the SSEB would escalate the matter to the Commissioner of Education and the Executive Governor, emphasizing the need for swift intervention. She reaffirmed the board’s commitment to advocating for the renovation and upgrading of public schools across the state.
Meanwhile, Executive Principals, teachers, and students have passionately appealed to the state government to prioritize school rehabilitation, stressing that urgent action is required to restore a safe and conducive learning environment.
With the growing concerns over the state of public education in Edo, all eyes are now on the government to implement lasting solutions and ensure that students receive the quality education they deserve.
