By Mamuda Wakili,
The Emir of Lere, Alhaji Nuru Adamu Jumba, has attributed the persistent vandalism of school properties in Bauchi State to the failure of relevant authorities to prosecute offenders.
The Emir made the remark today during an advocacy visit by the Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, and UNICEF to his palace in Bauchi.
He said many cases of theft of school properties have been recorded without the stolen items being recovered or perpetrators prosecuted.
Citing the case of Adamu Jumba Primary School, the Emir said the school was built and equipped with computers and solar power, but staff of the school allegedly stole the equipment and no action was taken.
According to him, inability to punish those caught vandalizing school properties encouraged others to do the same
The Emir disclosed that he has set up a committee to help restore the lost glory of education in his Emirate and urged state government government to initiate programs that will encourage the enrollment of children in schools
He also expressed concern over the exclusion of traditional rulers in school construction projects, and commended the involvement of traditional leaders in education, similar to their role in the health sector.
Earlier, the SUBEB Chairman said the visit was to seek the support of traditional rulers to improve education in the state. He noted that girl-child enrollment has declined, attributing it to the nonchalant attitude of parents.
He said available data show that illiteracy contributes to about 95% of the challenges facing the country, hence the need for traditional leaders to create awareness on the importance of education.
The SUBEB Chairman added that the Bauchi State Government has prioritized education and employed qualified teachers. He lamented that some unpatriotic individuals continue to vandalize school structures and facilities, and called on communities to take ownership of schools for the benefit of their children.
He urged communities to monitor teachers’ punctuality and report to appropriate authorities for necessary action, and advised parents to enroll their children in school and also embrace entrepreneurship for self-reliance.
Bauchi state government
