In a move that highlights the state’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of its students, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, has suspended the principal of a public boarding school due to reports of poor feeding.
The suspension follows complaints from students and parents about inadequate meals being provided to boarders at the school.
Mrs. Etiebet announced the suspension of Dr. Nse Sunday Umoh, the principal of the school, on November 23, 2024, stating that it was a necessary step to address the alarming situation.
“I have directed a comprehensive investigation into the state of boarding facilities in the school and the other 25 boarding secondary schools across the state,” Etiebet said in a statement.
The investigation will focus on key areas such as the condition of hostels, dining halls, recreational spaces, kitchen facilities, menus, and sanitation.
Etiebet added that the review would be jointly overseen by the Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Education and the State Secondary Education Board, ensuring that all aspects of the boarding experience are properly examined.
“This review is critical to ensuring that our students, who are the future of this state, receive the quality care and facilities they deserve,” she emphasized.
The suspension comes amid growing concerns about the welfare of students in Akwa Ibom’s public schools, particularly in boarding institutions. It was revealed that students have been suffering from malnutrition and poor sanitation in school hostels, despite the high boarding fees being paid.
Etiebet also acknowledged that while the state’s free education policy covers tuition fees, it does not extend to boarding fees. However, she emphasized that the welfare of students, especially those in public schools, remained a top priority for the state government.
“The Umo Eno-led administration is committed to the welfare and dignity of all students, and this is why we are taking immediate action to address these concerns,” she stated.
The situation in Akwa Ibom’s public boarding schools is not new. Many students have long complained of insufficient food, unhygienic conditions in hostels, and poor facilities. These issues have persisted despite the payment of significant boarding fees to the school management.
The state’s public education system, which includes federal government colleges, has also faced similar challenges. Reports of malnutrition and unsanitary living conditions in these institutions have raised concerns among parents and education stakeholders.
Etiebet’s decision to suspend the principal and order a full investigation is seen as a decisive response to these ongoing problems.
The suspension and investigation were welcomed by many parents and education advocates in the state, who have long called for better management of boarding schools and more accountability for school officials.
“It is good to see that the government is taking these complaints seriously,” said Mrs. Akpan, a parent with children in a public boarding school in Akwa Ibom. “Our children deserve better than this, and we hope this investigation will bring lasting changes.”
The Commissioner also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the state education ministry, school management, and other stakeholders to improve the quality of education and student welfare.
“We cannot afford to neglect our children. It is time to take bold steps and ensure that the conditions in our schools reflect the values we hold as a state and a nation,” Etiebet added.
The investigation is expected to bring to light the extent of the issues affecting the state’s public boarding schools, and recommendations for reforms will be made based on the findings.
The outcome of the investigation could lead to significant changes in the way public schools in Akwa Ibom are managed, with a particular focus on the boarding facilities. It is hoped that the review will help identify gaps in the management of school resources and lead to improvements in the quality of life for students.
The suspension of Dr. Nse Sunday Umoh is seen as a first step towards holding school authorities accountable and ensuring that the facilities meet the standards expected by the government and the public.
Etiebet’s strong stance on student welfare has been welcomed by many who feel that the quality of education in the state can only improve when students are provided with a safe, healthy, and supportive environment.
“This is a step in the right direction,” said Mr. Usen, an education consultant based in Uyo. “The focus should always be on the students, and ensuring their well-being should be the priority of any education administration.”
