On the 7th of November 2024, the National Association of Aninri Students (NAAS) embarked on a significant mission to assess the state of schools within Aninri, beginning their visits with institutions in Nenwe Town. The initial assessments focused on Nenwe Girls’ High School and Awgu High School, commonly known as County, where the NAAS executive committee witnessed firsthand the concerning conditions impacting student welfare and educational resources. The visit uncovered a series of alarming issues in both schools, revealing a pressing need for intervention from government and relevant stakeholders.
Upon arrival, NAAS representatives were met with deteriorating infrastructure that spoke volumes about long-term neglect. Observations revealed classrooms with cracked walls, broken windows, and doors barely holding onto their hinges. Many classrooms, particularly at Nenwe Boys’, lacked sufficient seating, with poor lighting adding to the discomfort. Sanitation facilities were also insufficient, with broken toilets and unreliable water supply systems further compromising student welfare.
The inadequacies extended beyond basic facilities, affecting educational resources and creating barriers to effective learning. Outdated textbooks, limited laboratory equipment, and a lack of functional libraries hindered academic engagement, particularly for students unable to afford personal study materials due to socioeconomic hardships. Many students came from underprivileged backgrounds, which the NAAS observed was linked to a lack of motivation and poor academic performance, creating a cycle of educational disadvantage.
Safety concerns were also prevalent. Many classrooms contained broken furniture, and several rooms at Nenwe Boys’ lacked seating, forcing students to sit on tables. The lack of a functional canteen on school grounds added to safety risks, as students had to leave campus and cross main roads to purchase food, exposing them to the dangers of traffic.
The impact of these deplorable conditions on students and staff was stark. The lack of a conducive learning environment made focusing on studies challenging, with unsanitary conditions further compromising the physical well-being of both students and teachers. The absence of adequate resources and support also dampened the morale of educators and school staff.
In light of these findings, NAAS President Mba-ana-abara Philip made a call to action, urging the Enugu State government and the local leadership, specifically Hon. Prince Ugochukwu Nwanjoku, to address these critical issues. The association highlighted the need for a comprehensive response that includes the renovation and rebuilding of school structures, the provision of essential educational resources, and the establishment of modern sanitation facilities. Furthermore, they advocated for teacher support programs, including training and resources to boost effectiveness, as well as the creation of a maintenance schedule to prevent further degradation.
The NAAS’s visit emphasized that the challenges faced by Nenwe Girls’ High School and Nenwe Boys’ are not isolated cases but represent the broader educational difficulties within Aninri Local Government Area. The association’s recommendations included a call for immediate government action within the next 6-12 months to prioritize the rehabilitation of these schools, ensuring that students and staff have access to a safe and supportive environment.
During their visit, the NAAS executives went beyond mere assessment, engaging directly with the students by sharing educational materials and monetary gifts. Awards were given to students for excellence in behavior and academic participation, aimed at encouraging diligence and motivating others to strive for similar achievements. The NAAS also used the opportunity to inspire students through personal stories, emphasizing time management, resilience, and the importance of not allowing their backgrounds to limit their aspirations. This motivational session resonated deeply with the students, who expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the support and encouragement.
The NAAS President extended his heartfelt appreciation to the association’s executive committee for dedicating their time to this meaningful cause. Reflecting on the experience, he highlighted the importance of positively impacting lives, particularly through investments in human capital. While the NAAS may lack the financial capacity to meet all the needs of these schools, their visit left the students motivated, hopeful, and reinvigorated to pursue their educational goals.
