Abia Schools Resume Final Term Amid Security, Infrastructure Concerns

Schools across Abia State have resumed for the final term of the 2025/2026 academic session, with administrators expressing optimism over student turnout while calling for urgent improvements in security and infrastructure.

At Umuola Egbelu Community Secondary School in Aba North Local Government Area, the Principal of the Senior Secondary Section, Mrs. Offia Ndukwe Onyemaobi, described the resumption as encouraging, noting a strong student presence on the first day.

She disclosed that over 97 students were in attendance, reflecting readiness among both students and parents for the demands of the term, which she said would be particularly busy with internal and external examinations, promotion exercises, and extracurricular activities.

Mrs. Onyemaobi also revealed that the state government had directed candidates preparing for external examinations to continue lessons with their subject teachers during holidays to ensure full syllabus coverage and proper preparation.

According to her, the directive is also aimed at curbing examination malpractice by equipping students with the knowledge and confidence needed to sit for their examinations independently.

Despite the positive start, the principal raised concerns over the security of the school, stressing the urgent need for perimeter fencing. She noted that although security personnel have been deployed to guard the premises after school hours, the open nature of the compound leaves it vulnerable to intrusion.

She added that some facilities previously vandalised by hoodlums are yet to be replaced and appealed to the state government to take immediate action to safeguard lives and property.

In the Junior Secondary Section, the Principal, Deaconess Ekeledirichi Odochi Alozie, highlighted the challenge of inadequate classroom space and insufficient seating as student enrollment continues to increase.

She said 157 students were recorded on the first day, with academic activities commencing immediately despite the constraints.

According to her, overcrowded classrooms are affecting the learning environment, and she called on the government and relevant education authorities to provide additional classrooms and furniture to enhance teaching and learning.

Deaconess Alozie noted that both teachers and students resumed with enthusiasm and renewed commitment, adding that educators remain dedicated to guiding students academically and morally.

A JSS2 student of the school, Master Chukwuemeka Kingsley, expressed excitement at returning to school and pledged to remain focused on his studies. He said he aims to perform well in his promotion examinations and advance to JSS3 in the next academic session.

The concerns raised by school administrators highlight the need for sustained government intervention to ensure safe and conducive learning environments as the academic session enters its final phase.

By Chinedu Kelechi, Aba