Teachers across Bauchi State have urged the state government to honour its commitment to pay outstanding leave grants and to invest in educational infrastructure and learning materials.
The appeal was made on Tuesday in Bauchi, as schools across the state resumed academic activities following the Ramadan break. The teachers noted that meeting their demands would significantly improve the teaching and learning environment.
Sunusi Hamza, Headmaster of Sa’adu Zungur Model Primary School, expressed satisfaction with the number of pupils who returned to school on time.
“We are delighted to see a large turnout of students. However, we continue to grapple with poor infrastructure, inadequate teaching materials, and unresolved welfare concerns such as unpaid leave grants,” he said.
Hamza praised the dedication of teachers and pupils alike, but emphasised the need for the state government to prioritise education through increased investment in the sector.
Also commenting, Malam Danladi Abi-Doka, Vice Principal of Government Junior Secondary School, Games Village, Bauchi, commended the early return of students and called on parents and guardians to support the government by ensuring their children resume school promptly.
“This will bolster the administration’s efforts to transform the education sector,” he added.
Dr. Mercy John, Principal of Sabil Sunlight School, also urged the government to focus more on education in order to secure a brighter future for children in the state.
“There is no justification for keeping children at home once schools have resumed. Teachers also have a responsibility to impart foundational knowledge,” she stated.
