Primary schools in Kogi state are in a very pathetic state due to the lingering crisis between the State Government and teachers, who are protesting alleged lack of respect by government for some of the agreements reached with the state. They are yet to resume classes. The strike by the teachers has forced poor children in public schools to roam the streets. The inability of the teachers to resume school has also not gone down well with parents, who believed the government has not done enough to ensure teachers resumed schools.
In the past eight months that schools have remained shut, most of the facilities have been covered in grasses while classrooms have become homes to dangerous reptiles. This is a source concern to parents of the less privileged in the state.
Kogi State, which has been rated as one of the most advanced states educationally in the north has been faced with unnecessary closure against the best interests of children.
Kogi has long fallen behind in various public examinations, a development that should be of concern to stakeholders. The crippling issues revolve around the minimum wage, leave bonuses and other allowances.
We believe resumption of schools will be a welcome development if both the teachers and the government compromise in their positions. The education of our children should be of paramount importance to all in
Kogi State.
Bala Nayashi,
Lokoja
