A recent fact-finding mission by the Gombe State Network for Civil Society Organisations has revealed significant challenges affecting school attendance in the state.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that GONET’s findings and recommendations aim to inform policymakers and stakeholders on the need for collaborative efforts to improve school attendance and education outcomes in the state.
The team, led by Vice Chairperson; Mrs Becky Wayas, and Secretary; Maina Benjamin, visited several schools in Akko, Kwami, and Gombe Local Government Areas.
“The findings indicate that habitual practices, parental attitudes, and pupils’ reluctance are major factors contributing to low attendance during the first week of resumption,” said Wayas. “It’s disheartening to note that some parents undervalue early school attendance, while pupils deliberately avoid school to escape tasks.”
https://youtu.be/fyruIR_gKAo?si=hsRlTREYNpIfvO4t
The team observed that more than seven monitoring teams from government agencies had visited some schools, leading to an improvement in attendance during the second week. However, GONET emphasised that addressing the deeper behavioral and societal issues requires collective action.
https://youtu.be/U0EJZIWBd1g?si=GyDweMSqrybrlRN3
“Reorientation programs, proactive measures by headteachers, community enlightenment, and sustained monitoring are crucial in addressing these challenges,” said Maina Benjamin. “We urge all stakeholders, including parents, schools, and government agencies, to work together in ensuring accessible and quality education for all children in Gombe State.”
At Shango Idrisa Primary School, Assistant Headmistress Nenta Ali, noted that week two has witnessed significant attendance describing it as ‘fair’.
She identified challenges affecting the school to include, inadequate teachers parents, and pupils willingness to attend school.
Also at Orji Estate Nursery and Primary School, Assistant Headmistress Hajiya Furera Ahmed, identified transportation, hunger issues as part of issues impeding attendance, “for now attendance is fair. Most of the students are housemaids. There is also issue of hunger. There should be enlightenment campaign to guardians on importance.”
