As the 2024/2025 academic term begins in Nasarawa State, over 350 students from Government Secondary School (GSS) Sarkin Noma in the Keana Local Government Area are facing significant challenges due to a lack of adequate classroom facilities.
The school which was established in 2003, is yet to receive any government-built classrooms, leaving the existing structures—two classroom blocks, an examination hall, and a staff office—constructed by local community members and former students.
The current facilities, which were built by the community predominantly composed of small-scale farmers and petty traders, are in a state of disrepair.
The only toilet available was constructed years ago by National Youth Service Corps members. This dire situation has led to concerns among parents, some of whom are hesitant to send their children to school due to fears of the structures collapsing, especially during the rainy season.
Community resident Zubeiru Yakubu expressed frustration over what he termed the "unreasonable abandonment" of the school by successive governments, urging Governor Abdullahi Sule to take immediate action to provide necessary infrastructure.
He emphasized the vital role the school plays in the community, particularly for families unable to afford private education.
Another resident, Yuhana Isah, echoed these sentiments, warning that the lack of facilities could deter students from attending school. He highlighted the community's recent efforts to encourage education, which could be undermined by the current conditions.
A teacher at the school, who requested anonymity, confirmed the absence of government support during his seven years of service. He noted that the community has repeatedly reached out to various government agencies for assistance but has received no response.
He described the precarious state of the school, where thunderstorms have damaged parts of the building, and emphasized the urgent need for a safe and conducive learning environment.
