Over 1,500 pupils in the Junior Secondary School Gurfata, Ibwa Ward, Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, are currently stranded due to the school’s worsening infrastructure. The institution, the only school in the community, is reportedly on the brink of collapse.
According to civic technology group MonITNg, the school’s leaking roofs, broken ceilings, and other structural deficiencies have driven teachers away, leaving the pupils without access to education. The group shared their concerns in a post on its X handle, calling for immediate intervention from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senator Ireti Kingibe.
MonITNg highlighted the dire state of the school in its message:
“Here’s the current state of Junior Secondary School Gurfata in Ibwa Ward, Gwagwalada Area Council, FCT Abuja—the only school in town, now on the brink of collapse. Poor living conditions have driven teachers away, leaving over 1,500 students without access to education. We urge the @GovWike and Sen @IretiKingibe to take immediate action,”* the group wrote.
Ilevbaoje Uadamen, the founder of MonITNg, described the situation as unacceptable, stressing the importance of education for societal progress.
“Education is the foundation of any thriving society. Our government must prioritize investing in education over wasteful spending on irrelevant ventures. A more educated citizenry means a stronger, more prosperous nation. Let’s channel resources where they matter most, building a brighter future for all,” Uadamen stated.
Established in 1984, the Gwagwalada Area Council is one of six area councils in the Federal Capital Territory. Its primary focus is fostering development in rural areas, including education and infrastructure. Despite the council’s responsibilities, the current state of Junior Secondary School Gurfata highlights the need for urgent attention from the Federal Capital Territory Secondary Education Board and other stakeholders.
Addressing these challenges will not only provide access to education for the affected pupils but also reinforce the government’s commitment to the development of rural communities.
