Private school owners in Edo State have called on Governor Godwin Obaseki to announce a new resumption date for schools to allow them adequate time for preparations.
The appeal was made during an enlarged meeting of the Concerned Private Schools Owners group, held on Monday, September 16, 2024, in Benin City.
The Chairman of the Coalition of Private Schools, Bishop Emanuel Elakhe Ohis, addressed the members, stating that while the postponement of school resumption by the Edo State Government may have been well-intentioned, it has caused significant challenges for school owners.
He noted that any further delay beyond the proposed September 23rd reopening would negatively affect enrollment, as many parents would prefer to wait until the next term to save costs.
Bishop Ohis also highlighted concerns about teachers struggling to complete the curriculum for the first term, given the Christmas break, which is fixed to begin by December 20. School owners are worried that an extended closure could lead to loss of teachers due to unpaid salaries, with many schools operating on termly loans that would be difficult to repay without resumption.
The group emphasised the financial strain schools are facing, particularly regarding tax payments and preparations for key exams such as the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE). There are also fears that the prolonged closure may lead to an increase in social vices among students left at home.
Bishop Ohis assured the group that discussions with key government officials, including Dr. Okosun, Director General of the Directorate of Educational Quality and Accountability (DEQA), and Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Oviawe, were underway to secure a resumption date after the upcoming elections.
He also expressed concern over some schools violating the government’s directives by holding unofficial classes, urging compliance with the rules for the sake of harmony between the schools and the government.
In his remarks, Elder Martins Osakue, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of one of the associations, acknowledged the government’s reasons for the postponement but urged a more collaborative approach. He stressed that school owners should be part of the decision-making process to foster mutual understanding and solutions.
The group collectively agreed to continue working with the government and the Ministry of Education to ensure a smooth, safe, and timely school resumption for the benefit of Edo State’s children.
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