The indefinite postponement of school resumption in Edo State raises grave concerns about the government's commitment to education. This decision, attributed to safety concerns and fuel price increases, demonstrates a lack of proactive measures to address insecurity and support students.
Education is a fundamental right, enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which states that "every child has the right to education." By prioritizing politics over education, the government is failing to uphold this basic human right.
The government's inability to ensure a safe learning environment and mitigate the impact of fuel price hikes on students is unacceptable. Parents and guardians have made preparations for the resumption, and further delays may affect students' mental health, academic performance, and social development. Moreover, prolonged school closures can lead to increased dropout rates, child labour, and early marriage.
Rather than postponing resumption, the government should focus on addressing security concerns and implementing measures to cushion the effects of fuel price increases. Developing schools across the state, ensuring uniform quality, and promoting accessibility would alleviate the need for lengthy commutes and closures due to insecurity or fuel hikes. This would also reduce the burden on parents and guardians, who may struggle to afford alternative educational arrangements.
The indefinite postponement disrupts the academic calendar, potentially leading to pressure on students and compromising effective learning. This may have long-term consequences, as seen in tertiary education due to strike actions. Furthermore, it undermines the government's responsibility to provide quality education, as enshrined in the CRC.
The Edo State government under Mr Godwin Obaseki must prioritize education, ensuring uninterrupted learning and addressing underlying issues. Sacrificing education for political reasons is unacceptable and may confirm fears about the government's inability to secure lives, property, and deliver on its mandate. By protecting the right to education, the government can help build a more informed, skilled, and productive society, ultimately driving progress and development in Edo State.
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