By Jibrin Hussaini Kundum, Bauchi
The Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has commenced the renovation of dilapidated public schools across the state as part of efforts to address longstanding challenges in the basic education sector.
The Director of School Services at SUBEB, Mallam Zuhairu Usman, disclosed this while leading journalists on an inspection tour of selected schools currently undergoing renovation.
According to him, the exercise is focused on replacing damaged roofing sheets and rehabilitating deteriorated school facilities in order to create a more conducive environment for effective teaching and learning.
Mallam Usman expressed concern over the poor maintenance culture affecting public school infrastructure, noting that many facilities have deteriorated due to neglect, windstorms and acts of vandalism by unscrupulous individuals.
He called on host communities to take ownership of public school facilities and support government efforts aimed at improving the standard of basic education in Bauchi State.
The Director further assured that SUBEB would sustain the renovation programme and also provide furniture to schools benefiting from the intervention.
He warned that the Board would no longer tolerate acts of vandalism, particularly the removal or destruction of school desks and other public property.
During the inspection tour, it was observed that renovation works were progressing steadily in a number of schools, including Iliya Adamu Primary School in Bondut, Dass Local Government Area; Jir Primary School; Birshin Fulani Primary School; and the Government Junior Secondary School.
In separate remarks, the Ward Head of Birshi, Alhaji Ahmad Lawal, and the Headmistress of Iliya Adamu Primary School, Mrs. Na’omi Joseph, commended the Bauchi State Government and SUBEB for the initiative.
They pledged their commitment to safeguarding the renovated facilities and supporting efforts to restore the standard of basic education in the state.
Both expressed optimism that the renovation exercise would have a positive impact and significantly improve the learning environment for pupils and students across Bauchi State.