By ESV Olekanma, Ph.D
The truth about education in Abia North is very different from what many people see or say on social media. Those who live outside Abia, or even those living in Abia but who do not visit public schools in their communities, need to take time to see things for themselves.
People should go and visit these schools.
In many communities across Abia North, pupils were sitting on bare floors to learn. Some classrooms had broken benches, while others had nothing at all. Teachers struggled to manage overcrowded classes, and learning conditions were very poor. This is the real situation on ground, not exaggeration.
It is from this background that the intervention by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu should be viewed. The Senator has facilitated support to over 100 public schools across Abia North. Every ABSIEC ward has at least one school that has benefited. Beyond desks, schools have received textbooks, uniforms, and sandals to help pupils whose parents cannot afford these basic items.
However, instead of acknowledging this effort, some people now complain about the quality of the desks distributed. What many of them forget is that, before now, these children were sitting on the floor. A desk that allows a child to sit and write properly is far better than no desk at all. Development does not happen overnight.
It is easy to talk from far away or post opinions online. It is different when you visit schools in places like Umunneochi, Arochukwu, Ohafia, Bende, and Isiukwuato and see the situation yourself. Those who do will understand that the reality on ground is not what social media makes it look like.
No one is saying everything is perfect. There is still work to be done. But it is only fair to say that Senator Kalu has done a lot for education in Abia North. Effort should be recognised, not ignored.
If we truly care about education, we should speak the truth, acknowledge progress where it exists, and encourage more action and not pretend nothing has been done.
