Students across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo have returned to classrooms, to begin the journey to mark the beginning of the second term of the academic year, marking the continuation of the 2023/2024 academic calendar.
However, this resurgence in academic activity is juxtaposed with the financial challenges faced by parents and educational institutions.
As school gates swung open on January 8, 2024, parents found themselves grappling with the burdensome task of meeting school fee payments and dealing with increments across these states. The economic strain on families has cast a shadow over the much-anticipated return to learning.
Edugist, committed to unravelling the dynamics of the education sector, ventured into the Odiolowo Ojuwoye Local Government area of Lagos. Our mission was to engage with parents, teachers, and students to capture the multifaceted aspects of the new term.
At De Anchor Academy in Mushin, the dean of studies exuded optimism about Mushin’s status as an academic hub, emphasizing the school’s dedication to enhancing digital skills. Despite this commitment, students like Elizabeth Oluwatobiloba voiced the impact of economic challenges on their holiday experiences, revealing a stark reality beneath the surface.
“I enjoyed my holiday and didn’t enjoy the holiday on one side. I played with my friends and we visited different places”
Afolabi Oluwseun, a senior secondary school student at The Anchor Academy, expressed her determination to focus on academics in the upcoming term.
She eagerly anticipates challenging examinations, highlighting the academic fervour prevailing among students amidst economic uncertainties.
“I will be sitting GCE this year and I really need to work harder and make my results”.
Administrators, too, grapple with the evolving landscape. Ekeji Ikechukwu Victor, a school administrator, stressed the need for teachers to be creative in finding additional income sources to complement their earnings from schools. The economic realities demand adaptability from educators to ensure the continuity of quality education.
“Personally I am going to be doing other businesses so that i can be able to survive this period”.
Bosom Private Schools echoed the sentiment of financial strain, with Mr Ibiyemi, the school owner, calling on the government to prioritize private education. He appealed for palliatives in the form of grants or loans, emphasizing the crucial role private institutions play in the education sector. His frustration was palpable as he highlighted the disconnect between promises of support and the stark reality faced at the grassroots level.
Miss Rhoda, a basic class teacher, expressed her determination to help her students better their knowledge of arithmetic by using the growing rise in goods and services as addition and subtraction examples.
She told edugist reporter that the students are somewhat distracted meeting their academics, and helping them out of these challenges is one of her goals for the second term.
Mr Johnson showed praise on the students by emphasising that their academics are top-notch because the school has given them an enabling environment where they can thrive.
Mrs Salako and Mrs Oluyi lamented the current economic challenges and that teachers in this period will survive based on what they have and the grace of God.
Emmanuel Odedina,a teacher from Lubotin college in a chat with Edugist reporter raised the issue of salary increment amidst the economic downturn.
He explained that how many schools will consider increasing the amount given to their teachers during this time.
Ms Christie from Oyo says the time to switch job is now as no one is expected to remain in a place where they are overused and underpaid.
Another teacher from Ogun,Lawal Segun maintained that government can make things happen by giving palliatives to teachers.
As the academic year begins, the narrative is sewed with the stability of students, the dedication of educators, and the plea for government assistance from school owners.
The intricate interplay of these elements shapes the evolving story of education in Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo, where the pursuit of knowledge grapples with the harsh economic currents.
