From Innocent Okoh
The Umagbai Junior Secondary School in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Edo State is set to benefit from a newly constructed block of six classrooms, including a head teacher’s office and toilet facilities. The project, handled by a contracting firm, is nearing completion and will soon be handed over to the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).
The school, one of the oldest public schools in the state, has produced notable individuals who have excelled in various fields. However, its infrastructure had suffered from poor management by past governments. The current administration, led by Governor Monday Okpebholo, has brought new hope to the school.
When this journalist visited the school, three new buildings were under construction, one of the new buildings is at the painting stage, another one is at lintel level while the third is at foundation level. The managing engineer and site supervisor, who spoke on the development, disclosed that the three buildings are being constructed by different contractors. One building, a block of six classrooms, was awarded by SUBEB before the current government took office but was completed under Governor Okpebholo’s administration. The second building also a block of six classrooms, which includes a staff office, toilet and a perimeter fence, is at the foundation stage and was awarded by SUBEB after Governor Okpebholo assumed office. While the third building is a project by the Niger-Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The completed project features modern facilities, including tile boards, school shelves, and furniture for the principal’s office and students. The managing engineer disclosed that the project aims to make education flexible and comfortable for the beneficiaries.
The project is expected to be handed over to SUBEB in two weeks, after which the students will start using the new facilities. The construction of the new buildings is expected to provide sufficient space for students and staff.
A look at the photos reveals the old building’s dilapidated state, making the new construction a much-needed upgrade.