Bishop petitions Buhari over indiscriminate opening of private schools in FCT

THE Anglican Bishop of Kubwa Diocese, Abuja, Rev. Duke T. Akamisoko, has expressed worry over what he described as the arbitrary opening and running of private schools within the Federal Capital Territory, without adherence to standard guidelines and regulations.

Consequently, he has called on President Muhammadu Buhari, to order the immediate closure of such schools in the territory.

In an open letter to Mr Buhari, the cleric urged him to look into the operations of the directorate, which the Inspectorate of Education is quartered in, adding that the department seems to be relenting in its statutory obligations of approving, monitoring and supervising of private schools.

Akamisoko noted that education guidelines were very clear as to structures and environment where a school should be opened and run, noting that contrary to the approved guidelines, schools were now being operated in rented shops, kiosks, flats, among other such places, which lack standard facilities.

He observed that teachers being recruited by such schools were not qualified and that this no doubt has an attendant effect on the innocent pupils, parents and the nation at large”

According to him, “The FCT is expected to be a model to the 36 states of the federation. The onus, however, lies on the administrators of education in the FCT to sit up and ensure that due process is followed and that standards and regulations are strictly complied with.”

A copy of the letter obtained by The Guardian read in part, “We have noticed that private schools ranging from primary, secondary and tertiary are being opened and run in unapproved structures and facilities within the FCT.

The letter further reads, “This act cannot be far-fetched from the act of corruption which your Excellency has vowed to get rid of.” We therefore pray your Excellency to use your good office to direct the appropriate department to act promptly so as to save the falling standard of our education before it is too late. We suggest that you direct the directorate of education in the FCT to swing into action, identify the concerned schools and close down such with immediate effect”.

Bishop Akamisoko further stated that if the dreams and aspirations of the President are to be realised, the standard of education in the country should not be compromised.