Addressing the Challenges Undermining Educational Infrastructure in Ondo State

Let me join others in congratulating Bornu State for the giant strides recorded in the construction of schools with modern facilities. This achievement is commendable and worthy of recognition.
However, the call on Governor Ayedatiwa to “see and emulate” Bornu State should be viewed with caution, as it may sound derogatory or historically inaccurate. Ondo State has long been a pacesetter in this regard. Ondo State pioneered the construction of Mega Schools, a model that many states—including Bornu —are now emulating.
These Mega Schools were well structured and equipped with modern facilities. Notably, even my hometown benefitted from this initiative with the establishment of a Type B Mega School.
That said, experience has revealed several challenges militating against the sustainability of this model, and these issues must be addressed honestly and factually.
First, the lack of maintenance culture.
The construction of Mega Schools requires a dedicated and sustainable maintenance framework. Regular cleaning, grass cutting, periodic repainting, and general face-lifting—preferably on a biannual basis—are essential to preserve their aesthetic appeal and functionality. Without a special maintenance fund, these massive investments quickly deteriorate.
Second, insecurity and vandalism.
Vandalism of school facilities has become alarming. Hoodlums now brazenly cart away school equipment and infrastructure almost daily. Several cases are currently pending in court, which is deeply worrisome. At a point, a memo was proposed to declare a State of Emergency on School Vandalism, to wage a full-scale war against this menace. Those found culpable should be treated with the utmost seriousness, as they are effectively destroying the future of the next generation.
Third, teacher capacity and recruitment.
Training teachers to effectively handle modern facilities must be given priority. Recruitment into schools should be deliberate and strategic, because the quality of teachers determines the quality of future leaders. Today’s teachers must be proficient in the use of modern tools such as computers, projectors, digital boards, and other ICT-driven learning resources.
Given these realities, modern facilities can only deliver their intended impact when managed by a new breed of well-trained, ICT-compliant teachers capable of preparing learners for a rapidly evolving world.
Furthermore, government at all levels must remain committed to the implementation of UNESCO’s recommendation that 20% of the annual budget be allocated to education. Education should be seen not as a cost, but as a strategic investment in national development, peace, and security.
When a majority of citizens are well educated and properly trained, many of the social vices and menaces confronting our society today would naturally diminish. Ignorance, unemployment, and lack of skills continue to fuel insecurity and social instability.
Adequate funding is therefore indispensable to translating noble policies and impressive infrastructure from desire to reality. Increased investment will strengthen maintenance culture, improve security of school facilities, enhance teacher training, and ensure effective use of modern learning tools.
In conclusion, while the provision of modern school infrastructure is laudable, sustainability, security, quality teaching, and adequate funding must work together if education is to truly serve as the foundation for our collective future.

Ch Okedusi A.Ben 
The Alabojuto of the Church of Ascension Anglican Communion Supare writes from Akure 

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