When we first visited Onda Community Primary School, Nasarawa LGA, Nasarawa state, in 2019, we faced a dire situation. The school had been in disrepair for over a decade, with children making do with broken furniture, stones, and the bare floor as their learning environment.
The lack of learning materials and the overall unsuitable conditions had led to a significant decline in student attendance, with many children choosing to accompany their parents to the farm instead. We held a sensitization meeting with the community on engaging their elected leaders and renovating the school.
In 2020, we engaged the Nasarawa/Toto Federal Constituency office of Hon. Abdulmumin Mohammed, highlighting the problem of the Onda people and the dire need for the rehabilitation of the school.
Finally, in March 2023, a three-block classroom was constructed, and 25 iron chairs with lockers, three office tables, and three chairs were supplied to the school. The provision of desks, other furniture, and the new classrooms has brought joy to both the students and teachers, ending a misery of over ten years. The children are back in school, and attendance has significantly improved by 65%.
Mr. Salihu Zubairu, the school’s headmaster, expressed his gratitude for the furniture supply, noting that students are now more comfortable and engaged in learning. However, he also highlighted that the school still needs additional chairs and tables to attract more students back to school. This ongoing need underscores the importance of continued support for the school.
Mr. Elisha Ekko, the community secretary, expressed excitement at seeing students finally sitting on chairs and tables and urged the government to continue supporting the school’s needs.
The community residents are grateful to Tracka for providing guidance and facilitating the advocacy to the Honorable member representing Nasarawa/Toto Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdulmumin Mohammed, for nominating and completing the project.
Story by Oluwatise Akinmutimi and Sarah Musa
