Ondo State @50: Principals Applaud Educational Progress, Identify Challenges, Chart Bold Path for the Future
As Ondo State marks the golden jubilee of its creation, Democrat News Magazine, a leading media organisation in the Sunshine State, has taken an in-depth look at the growth, challenges, and future projections of education in the state over the last 50 years.
Education stakeholders who spoke with this magazine acknowledged significant progress in the sector, while also highlighting emerging challenges such as rapid population growth, technological advancement, the transition from analogue to digital learning, artificial intelligence (AI), discipline, and government policies.
Progress Made, Challenges Ahead
Mr. Adelusi Debo Tai, Principal of Aquinas College, Akure, described the last five decades as a period of steady educational growth, while paying tribute to the founding fathers of the state.
“There has been progressive development in education in Ondo State in the last 50 years. I am personally a beneficiary of the free education policy under the leadership of Pa Adekunle Ajasin,” he said.
He noted that although Ondo State now has over 300 secondary schools, they are still insufficient due to the ever-increasing population. According to him, discipline was stricter in earlier years, which contributed to lasting legacies in schools.
“Today’s Gen-Z students have changed the narrative. Discipline has declined, and schools now face limitations in handling erring students. In some cases, students even mobilise thugs against teachers,” he lamented.
Mr. Adelusi stressed that government alone cannot fix the challenges, calling for collaboration among parents, educators, and other stakeholders. He also advocated for more boarding schools, improved infrastructure, continuous teacher training, and enhanced school security.
He concluded by sending goodwill messages to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, and other stakeholders on the state’s 50th anniversary.
Expanding Access and Teacher Shortage
Dr. (Mrs.) Ojoge Omotola Temitope, Principal of Fiwasaye Girls’ Grammar School, Akure, described the state’s educational journey as remarkably progressive.
“When Ondo State was created, many villages had no schools. The establishment of schools across communities and the creation of state-owned universities opened doors for many who would have struggled to access higher education,” she said.
However, she identified social media misuse and excessive phone use as major contributors to indiscipline and social vices among students. She also blamed inadequate parental supervision and over-pampering.
While commending the current administration for teacher recruitment, she called for massive employment of teachers, noting that many educators employed in the early 1990s are retiring.
She congratulated Governor Aiyedatiwa, other stakeholders, and the founding fathers of Ondo State for their enduring contributions.
Missionary Roots, Policy Reforms, and Private School Support
Rev. Father Joseph Ajayi, Principal of Roman Catholic St. Thomas Aquinas College, Akure, traced the evolution of education in Ondo State from missionary control to government administration and private participation.
He highlighted the introduction of quality assurance measures, rural posting incentives such as bush allowance, and policy reforms as key drivers of growth.
Rev. Father Ajayi called for government support for private schools, including grants-in-aid, to ensure every child’s right to education is upheld. He urged parents to respect school rules and encouraged teachers to adopt diverse teaching methodologies to cater for students with varying learning abilities.
Staff Shortage and Parental Responsibility
Mrs. L. R. Omotosho, Principal of Adegbola Memorial Grammar School, Akure, praised past and present leaders, especially Governor Aiyedatiwa, for improving education through teacher recruitment, proper funding, and prompt salary payments.
She revealed that over eight staff members are retiring in her school this year and stressed the need for junior cadre and non-teaching staff, including clerks and guardians.
She urged parents to go beyond providing basic needs by instilling discipline and strong moral values in their children.
Discipline, Technology, and Innovation
Mrs. Daudu, Principal of CAC United, Akure, congratulated the state leadership and shared how internal strategies have helped curb lateness and indiscipline in her school.
Similarly, Mr. Ajileye Ayoola, Vice-Principal (Administration), CAC United, identified declining discipline as a major concern, linking it to excessive parental interference under the guise of human rights.
He commended the state government and the Commissioner for Education for establishing disciplinary committees and praised the integration of technology, AI, and digital tools in learning.
Infrastructure, Security, and Balanced Enrollment
Mrs. Alo Oluwatoyin Shade, Principal of St. Francis School, Akure, said her nearly 30 years in the system has witnessed tremendous improvements, including equipment support, quality assurance, TESCOM zonal offices, and prompt salary payments.
She advocated for CCTV installation, security personnel, functional laboratories, and adequate furniture, while also calling for a more balanced distribution of students across schools.
A Pace-Setter State
Other principals, including Mrs. Olajumoke Ekp-Jide of CAC Adu High School and Dr. Olobayo Theophilus Toyin of CAC Grammar School, Akure, described Ondo State as a pace-setter in education.
Dr. Olobayo noted that the last 50 years have seen geometric progress, with continuous training and retraining of teachers both within and outside Nigeria.
They all commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to educational advancement.