By Awwal Umar Kontagora In a major step toward improving educational opportunities for military families and the local community...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
In a major step toward improving educational opportunities for military families and the local community, the Nigerian Army has conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Command Day Secondary School at the Kontagora Military Cantonment in Niger State.
The ceremony was officiated by Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who was represented by Major General John Sokoya, Commander of the Nigerian Army Training Center.
General Oluyede emphasized that establishing the secondary school aligns with his command philosophy, which prioritizes the welfare of troops and their families. He acknowledged that the absence of a secondary school within the cantonment had long posed a challenge, hindering a smooth transition for pupils from primary to secondary education.
He highlighted the broader importance of education in societal development, stating that the new school would not only benefit children of military personnel but also provide quality education to members of the host community.
> “The school will serve as a hub for community engagement, fostering peaceful coexistence between the military and the local population,” he said.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to education, Oluyede noted that the project would enhance the academic continuity of pupils, ensuring they have access to quality learning facilities.
In his welcome address, Major General Zakari Abubakar, Commander Corps of Artillery, underscored the significance of the initiative, stating that it aims to bridge a long-standing educational gap within the cantonment.
> “Upon assuming duty, we identified a critical gap in the education system for children in the barracks, as there has been no secondary school since the establishment of the cantonment,” Abubakar explained.
He pointed out that the only existing educational facilities in the cantonment were the Army Children’s School, established in 1973, and Vulcan Nursery and Primary School, established in 1995.
With annual enrollment from both the barracks and the host community exceeding 1,000 pupils, the lack of a secondary school had created significant challenges for students transitioning from primary education.
Following a needs assessment, it became evident that the absence of a secondary school not only impacted educational progress but also affected troop morale by limiting educational opportunities for their dependents.
Expressing gratitude to the COAS for approving the project, Abubakar affirmed that the Command Secondary School would provide a long-term solution to these challenges, ensuring accessible, high-quality education for both military and civilian children.
No comments