The deterioration of education in Bauchi State is a matter of profound concern, and as a beneficiary of public schools from my early years until now, I have witnessed the gradual decline that has unfolded.
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) highlighted in their 2019 report that Bauchi State ranks among those with the highest dropout rates, painting a grim picture of the state of education in this region.
Reflecting on my own experience, particularly in my Local Government, Darazo, the challenges at the grassroots level are alarming.
Primary schools, which serve as the foundation for a child’s education, are grappling with severe issues. The pupil-teacher ratio is unacceptably skewed, with a staggering ratio of 1:400. This dire situation hampers effective teaching and learning, as it becomes virtually impossible for a single teacher to cater to the educational needs of such a large number of of pupils or students.
The physical infrastructure of these schools further exacerbates the problem. Dilapidated buildings, lacking in basic amenities, create an environment that is far from conducive for learning.
The absence of essential resources such as desks compounds, teaching aids, and other learning materials is a great challenges, forcing students to grapple with substandard conditions. These conditions not only impede the educational process but also compromise the safety and well-being of the students and teachers.
Moreover, the issue of teacher shortage is starkly evident. Schools are operating without a sufficient number of qualified Teachers, and the dearth of teachers exacerbates the already strained pupil-teacher ratio. This deficiency directly impacts the quality of education delivered to the students. Without proper guidance and mentorship, students are left to navigate their academic journey with limited support, hindering their overall educational development.
Promotional stagnation adds another layer to the crisis. The lack of a clear and timely promotion system for teachers creates a demotivating atmosphere, further deterring qualified individuals from pursuing or continuing a career in education. This, in turn, perpetuates the cycle of teacher shortages, as professionals are discouraged by the absence of career progression and recognition.
In response to these pressing issues, I earnestly call upon the Bauchi State Government to take immediate and comprehensive measures to address the state of education.
Urgent steps must be taken to recruit qualified Teachers, ensuring that schools have an adequate workforce to meet the educational needs of the growing student population. Additionally, a robust promotion system should be implemented to motivate and retain qualified Teachers.
Investing in the revitalization of educational infrastructure is equally critical, so Bauchi State Government always airing that, they renovated various primary school but that renovated building looks like robots building, which the quality of the buildings were compromised.
Therefore, Dilapidated buildings must be renovated, and schools should be equipped with essential resources, including desks and instructional materials.
This commitment to creating a conducive learning environment is pivotal for fostering a positive and effective educational experience for students.
In conclusion, the decline of education in Bauchi State is a complex issue that demands immediate attention and concerted efforts from the government. By prioritizing the recruitment and promotion of qualified teachers and investing in the improvement of educational infrastructure.
The future prosperity of the state hinges on the investment made in its most valuable asset, the education of its youth.
Abdullahi A. Konkiyel.
PhD. Research Fellow.
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