Since July 12, 2024, when a two-story building collapsed at the Saints Academy in the Busa Buji area of the Jos North local government area, killing over 20 students and sending over 100 others to the hospitals, the survivors and families of the victims are still reeling from the impacts of the incident.

Worried by the realization that the collapsed structure showed signs of distress and inferior materials were used in its construction, the State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang inaugurated a committee to investigate the cause of the collapse.

Governor Mutfwang while inaugurating a Technical committee led by Professor Slim Matawal, tasked the Committee to thoroughly investigate the cause(s) of the collapse and examine the roles of all individuals involved in the construction and maintenance of the building.

He explained that the investigation was crucial to prevent similar tragedies in the future and stated, “We must understand why this incident occurred, identify any lapses in duty, and implement measures to prevent a recurrence. Reports indicate that around 12 other schools in the city are at risk of collapse, which necessitates urgent action.

“We will continue to enforce necessary changes with compassion, avoiding unnecessary hardship for our people. However, we cannot compromise on the safety of innocent lives. The loss of 24 children is a grave reminder of the urgency of our mission.”

At that time, the Governor had promised that the scrutiny of the integrity of school structures would not be limited to private schools but would also be extended to the public schools which equally needs urgent attention.

To make good on the promise to refurbish the public schools, the State has commenced the process of constructing new structures in 55 schools to give the education sector in the State a facelift.

Recently, the Governor awarded contracts for the construction of 55 new Secondary schools across the State, insisted that the new structures must adhere to international standards and serve as models for future educational developments, and reiterated his commitment to transforming the State’s educational infrastructure.

The contract involves the construction of 35 Junior Secondary Schools and 20 Senior Secondary Schools, all aimed at enhancing educational opportunities across the State.

He said, “This project, under the Plateau State Adolescent Girls’ Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), funded by the World Bank, is a crucial investment in improving the learning environment for our students. These projects are designed to empower the girl child, educating women has far-reaching benefits for society.

“Let me warn you ahead of time, you must do a good job. We will ensure that these projects meet the highest standards. Our supervisory mechanisms will be top-notch because we want to set a precedent with this initiative. When the World Bank team comes for evaluation, we must not be found wanting.”

The Governor explained that the funds allocated for the projects are not grants, and urged the contractors to adhere strictly to the specified building standards and timelines.

However, the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mohammed Nyalun, expressed gratitude to the World Bank, the Federal Government, and Governor Mutfwang for their roles in making the project a reality and stated that “the initiative is a crucial step towards ensuring every child in Plateau State has access to education in a conducive learning environment.”

Project Coordinator for the Plateau State Adolescent Girls’ Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, AGILE Plateau State project, Shirinkpo Maina, stated that the facilities lay the groundwork for inclusive, quality education accessible to every child, regardless of background.

Philomena Taukek commended the initiative and stated that it will boost the confidence and morale of teachers, students, and members of the communities of the benefiting schools.