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The Akwa Ibom State government has initiated a probe into the condition of boarding facilities in public schools after a viral video emerged showing students at Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, Ibiono Ibom, being served poor-quality meals.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, on Saturday in Uyo, the information was disclosed to the public.
The commissioner explained that she conducted a surprise inspection of the school in response to a viral video that sparked widespread anger over the inadequate and poorly prepared meals provided to students.
She declared the immediate suspension of the school’s principal, Dr. Nse Sunday Umoh, emphasizing that the action would stand until the investigation reached its conclusion.
“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.”
Etiebet clarified that the state’s free education initiative covers tuition fees but excludes boarding expenses. Despite this, he emphasized that Governor Umo Eno’s administration remains deeply committed to safeguarding the well-being and dignity of students in public schools.
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She added, “We appeal to parents who have already been greatly relieved of the burden of tuition fees to undertake basic parental responsibilities to support their children in secondary schools.”
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to raising the standard of education and ensuring public school facilities meet acceptable standards.
“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,” she said.
She also appealed for patience from the public as the investigation unfolds, adding that the administration remained committed to delivering quality education under the ARISE Agenda.
