The Akwa Ibom State government has taken swift action after a video showing students of Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, Ibiono Ibom, eating poorly prepared meals went viral.
The video sparked widespread criticism, prompting the Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, to address the issue immediately.
In a statement released on Saturday, Etiebet revealed that she had visited the school unannounced to assess the situation personally. Following her inspection, the school’s principal, Dr. Nse Sunday Umoh, was suspended pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation.
“Following the very disturbing video where students were fed with unpalatable and non-nutritious meals at Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, I paid an unscheduled visit to the school,” she said.
“I have directed a comprehensive investigation into the state of boarding facilities in the school and the other 25 boarding secondary schools across the state. This review, which will focus on hostels, dining halls, recreation areas, menus, kitchens, and sanitary facilities, will be jointly overseen by the Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Education and the State Secondary Education Board.”
The commissioner highlighted that while the government’s free education policy covers tuition fees, it does not include boarding costs. She urged parents to play an active role in supporting their children.
Governor Umo Eno’s administration reaffirmed its commitment to improving education through the ARISE Agenda. “The government is determined to ensure that all public school facilities meet irreducible minimum standards that uphold the well-being of both learners and staff,” Etiebet added.
