Govt not doing enough to fund public education, says JABU don, Adaja

Dean of Postgraduate Studies at Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State, Professor Tokunbo Adaja, has faulted the government over the state of public schools, saying that while it cannot single-handedly fund the education sector, it is not doing enough to improve educational infrastructure.

Adaja stated this shortly after emerging as president of the 1982 Set of the Uso Grammar School Old Students’ Association. He said that governments must play a more active role in providing and maintaining educational infrastructure.

According to him, many public schools are in a deplorable condition despite the critical role education plays in national development.

“Let us be realistic; government cannot do everything. But in our state, government is not doing enough. If you visit many of these schools, you will be shocked by their condition,” he said.

The don noted that alumni associations have continued to complement government efforts by contributing resources towards improving learning facilities in their former schools.

He disclosed that members of the Uso Grammar School Old Students’ Association recently raised funds to renovate parts of the school, including plastering and repainting buildings, to provide a more conducive environment for teaching and learning.

“Government is not doing enough. From our limited resources, we can also assist because these children are the leaders of tomorrow.

“We need to provide them with sound education and the necessary resources to achieve their ambitions,” he added.

Adaja urged governments at all levels to invest more in education while encouraging alumni groups and other stakeholders to continue supporting their alma maters.

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On the increasing cases of vandalism in renovated public schools, he blamed school administrators for failing to enforce discipline and safeguard public facilities.

He said: “The administrators should be held responsible. Every school has a principal or head teacher. If students are destroying facilities, it shows there is a gap in administration.

“There must be discipline, accountability, and proper supervision. Where necessary, parents and law enforcement agencies should be involved to ensure students are properly guided.”

He expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between governments, alumni associations, and other stakeholders would improve public schools and help produce future generations of responsible leaders.