The Oyo State Government has appealed to parents in Oriire Local Government Area to prioritize their children's education following a recent abduction incident. Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, made the appeal during a working visit to affected communities. He engaged students, teachers, parents, and stakeholders on measures to ensure learners' safe return to school. The visit aimed to restore normal academic activities and strengthen education delivery in the area. Olayiwola expressed concern about the level of preparedness observed in schools.
The abduction incident has significantly impacted school attendance in the area. At Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, the new academic session had yet to commence. Olayiwola interacted with parents and children, addressing concerns about children not returning to school. Instead, some were engaged in skills-acquisition activities during school hours. The commissioner visited locations where children were learning various skills, encouraging parents to prioritize formal education. He emphasized the importance of commitment to children's education.
Olayiwola directed officials to follow up on affected learners and facilitate their return to school. This aims to prevent a further increase in out-of-school children in the state. The commissioner also directed the Director of Basic Education to liaise with the Nigerian Baptist Conference on possible interventions to support the school. The institution, a private school owned by the Conference, may require assistance to prevent closure. Olayiwola sought the support of traditional institutions in restoring normal educational activities.
During a courtesy visit to the Elesinele of Esiele, Oba Tajudeen Abisoye, the commissioner sought continued support for schools and teachers. The traditional ruler reaffirmed the palace's support, noting that accommodation had been provided for government teachers. However, Oba Abisoye raised concerns about the use of the Primary Health Centre by military personnel as accommodation, affecting medical personnel's activities. The issue highlights the need for coordination between government agencies and traditional institutions.
At Ahoro-Esiele Community Grammar School, Olayiwola addressed complaints about teacher shortages, particularly in Mathematics. He directed the Tutor General to facilitate the posting of additional teachers to the school. The commissioner also received an appeal from Parent-Teacher Association teachers seeking consideration for absorption into the Teaching Service Commission. Olayiwola directed the Tutor General to prepare a submission on engaging interested indigenes willing to teach.
The Oyo State Government is working to restore normalcy in the education sector. Olayiwola's visit and directives demonstrate efforts to address the challenges faced by schools in the area. The government aims to ensure that learners have a safe and conducive environment for learning. By engaging stakeholders and addressing concerns, the government hopes to prevent similar incidents in the future. Education is a priority for the government, and it is working to ensure that schools function effectively.
The incident highlights the need for collaboration between government agencies, traditional institutions, and stakeholders to address security challenges in schools. By working together, they can ensure that learners have a safe and secure environment for learning. The Oyo State Government's efforts aim to promote education and prevent similar incidents in the future. Key officials are committed to finding solutions to the challenges faced by schools in the area.
Key points
- Oyo State Govt urges parents to prioritize education amid abduction crisis
- Govt officials engage stakeholders to restore normal academic activities
- Education sector faces challenges due to security incidents
