Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, is heartbroken. The schools he poured his energy and vision into during his tenure are now shadows of their former selves. Abandoned and vandalized, these institutions, once beacons of hope, are a painful reminder of what could have been.
This article dives into Amaechi’s lament, explores the ambitious education projects he initiated, and asks the burning question: What led to the neglect and ruin of these schools?
Here’s a quick rundown of what we’ll cover:
- Amaechi’s emotional reaction to the state of the schools.
- Details of the primary and secondary schools he built.
- The innovative approach to education, including foreign teachers.
- Possible reasons for the abandonment and vandalism.
- The broader implications for education in Rivers State.
Amaechi’s Anguish: ‘It Gives Me Mental Disorder’
Speaking on Arise News, Amaechi didn’t mince words. He expressed deep sadness and frustration over the current state of the schools he championed. “Abandoned. Vandalised. That’s why I don’t go to Rivers State. Because it gives me mental disorder,” he confessed.
Amaechi highlighted the stark contrast between his administration’s focus on education and the current situation. He pointed out the irony of others being celebrated for building flyovers while his educational legacy crumbles. According to data from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Rivers State has struggled with maintaining educational infrastructure in recent years, a challenge that contributes to the issues Amaechi highlights.
Building a New Vision for Education
During his time as governor (2007-2015), Amaechi embarked on an ambitious project to revamp the education sector in Rivers State. He constructed numerous primary and secondary schools, aiming to provide quality education and a conducive learning environment.
“I built secondary schools people are calling universities. Two children per room in those schools and I got an agency in India to manage those schools. So they brought science teachers from India and arts teacher from Nigeria,” Amaechi explained.
This innovative approach, involving foreign expertise, aimed to raise the standard of education and provide students with a well-rounded learning experience. The schools were designed to accommodate students comfortably, with modern facilities and resources.
What Went Wrong? Unraveling the Neglect
The question on everyone’s mind is: How did these once-promising schools fall into disrepair? While Amaechi didn’t explicitly state the reasons, several factors could have contributed to the decline:
- Lack of Maintenance: Without regular upkeep, buildings and facilities deteriorate over time.
- Change in Administration: New administrations may have different priorities, leading to the neglect of previous projects.
- Vandalism and Theft: Unfortunately, school properties can be targets for vandalism and theft, further exacerbating the problem.
- Community Involvement: A lack of community ownership and involvement can contribute to the neglect of public resources.
The Bigger Picture: Implications for Rivers State
The abandonment and vandalism of these schools have far-reaching consequences for the education sector in Rivers State. It not only affects the students who are deprived of quality learning environments but also discourages investment in education.
The situation calls for urgent action to address the underlying issues and prevent further deterioration. This includes increased funding for maintenance, enhanced security measures, and greater community engagement.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
Amaechi’s lament serves as a wake-up call for all stakeholders in Rivers State. It’s a reminder that education is a vital investment in the future and that neglecting it can have devastating consequences. The time to act is now, to restore these schools to their former glory and ensure that every child in Rivers State has access to quality education.
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