The Dean of Postgraduate Studies at Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State, Prof. Tokunbo Adaja, has expressed concern over thepoor condition of public schools across the country, saying that while the government cannot single-handedly fund the sector, it is not doing enough to improve educational infrastructure.

Adaja, who spoke shortly after emerging as President of the 1982 set ofUso Grammar School Old Students’ Association, Ondo, lamented that many public schools across the country are in a deplorable condition despite the critical role education plays in national development.

He said the state of infrastructure in several schools falls far short of what is required to produce quality graduates and future leaders.

“Let us be realistic; government cannot do everything. But in our state, the government is not doing enough. If you visit many of these schools, you will be shocked by their condition,” Adaja said.

The professor noted that the gap in government funding and maintenance has continued to put pressure on other stakeholders, particularly alumni associations, to step in and complement efforts at improving learning environments.
He disclosed that members of the Uso Grammar School Old Students’ Association, 1982 Set, recently mobilised resources to renovate parts of the school.

The intervention, he said, included plastering and repainting of buildings to provide a more conducive teaching and learning environment.

“Government is not doing enough. From our limited resources, we can also assist because these children are the leaders of tomorrow,” he said.

Adaja urged governments at all levels to increase investment in education and prioritise the provision and maintenance of infrastructure in public schools.

He also called on alumni groups, private individuals, and corporate organisations to support their alma mater, reminding that education remains a collective responsibility.

The don further spoke on the increasing cases of vandalism in some public schools. He blamed school administrators for their failure to enforce discipline and safeguard public facilities.

“The administrators should be held responsible. Every school has a principal or head teacher. If students are destroying facilities, it shows there is a gap in administration,” he said.
He emphasised the need to maintain discipline and ensure proper supervision in schools to prevent property destruction.

He added that, where necessary, parents and law enforcement agencies should be involved to ensure that students are properly guided and held accountable for their actions.

Adaja expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between governments, alumni associations, and other stakeholders would lead to improved conditions in public schools.

He said such a partnership was necessary to ensure that children receive quality education and grow into responsible leaders who can contribute meaningfully to national development.