Stakeholders and former students of a historic primary school in Taraba State have issued a strong appeal for urgent investment in its facilities and educational support programmes.
A Call to Sustain a Legacy
During the 2nd Edition of the Old Students’ Association Congress held over the weekend, alumni of Muhammadu Nya Primary School in Jalingo gathered to chart a course for the institution's future. The Chairman of the Congress, Engineer Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, framed the event as a reunion of a family united by a shared history and a profound responsibility.
Represented by Professor Shehu Usman Karim, Sambo, a former Minister of Transportation, described the school as more than just a learning centre. He emphasised that it has been a cradle for leaders, professionals, and change-makers who drive national development. "As alumni, we have a sacred duty to sustain the legacy of this school and ensure its continued excellence," he stated, affirming that primary education is the bedrock of societal progress.
Personal Contributions and Persistent Challenges
Sambo highlighted his personal interventions at the school, which include:
- Rehabilitation of security fences and classroom blocks.
- Construction of a one-storey building.
- Establishment of an ICT centre equipped with 12 computers.
He noted that similar projects have been replicated in other community primary schools, underscoring his commitment to grassroots development. However, he candidly addressed the significant hurdles still facing primary education, such as:
- Inadequate facilities and teacher shortages.
- The pressing demands of the digital age.
He called on fellow alumni to tackle these issues through collective strategic investments and partnerships.
Priorities for the Future
According to Sambo, the roadmap for the school's revival should focus on several key areas:
- Building modern classroom infrastructure.
- Providing continuous training and capacity building for teachers.
- Creating scholarship and mentorship programmes for pupils.
- Fostering stronger engagement with parents and the wider community.
Echoes from the Academic Community
The Guest Speaker, Dr. Hisham Aliyu Bacci Mohammed, who is the Acting Provost of the Federal College of Education, Obudu, in Cross River State, reinforced the message. He stressed the fundamental importance of giving back to one's alma mater, noting that primary schools like Muhammadu Nya are where core values such as perseverance and discipline are first instilled. He joined the call for sustained investment in both infrastructure and scholarship schemes.
Celebrating a Century of Impact
Earlier, the Chairman of the Old Students’ Association, Mohammed Umaru, provided historical context, revealing that Muhammadu Nya Primary School was established in 1927. He announced that plans are already in motion to celebrate the school's centenary anniversary. Umaru called on members to redouble their efforts, noting the school's impressive alumni network, which includes notable traditional rulers, academics, politicians, and technocrats across Nigeria.
The collective voice from the congress sends a clear message: preserving the heritage and enhancing the capabilities of this nearly century-old institution is vital for nurturing the next generation of Nigerian leaders.
