The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Onomen Briggs, has called on contractors handling school infrastructure projects to expedite construction and ensure all facilities are completed before the new school term begins.
Briggs made the appeal on Wednesday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in Edo South Senatorial District.
She noted that the visit was aimed at assessing progress and ensuring timely delivery of the projects.
Briggs also criticized the poor state of classrooms in the area but praised Governor Godwin Obaseki for prioritizing basic education through consistent infrastructure upgrades and the declaration of a state of emergency in the sector.
“The purpose of this inspection is to ensure that these facilities are ready before the school resumes. So I appeal to the contractors to make it happen,” she said.
While addressing the site engineers, she urged the team to expedite construction activities to ensure the facilities are completed.
She further emphasized the role of the School-Based Management Committee in ensuring that educational infrastructure is protected from vandalism and properly maintained, urging members to take full ownership of the projects.
She added, “The purpose of this inspection is to ensure that these facilities are ready before the school resumes. So i appeal to the contractors to make it happen.”
At Adolor Primary School, Okabere Community, Benin a block of six classrooms, six toilets, and administrative offices being handled by contractor LaVida Systems Ltd is nearing completion.
The project also includes perimeter fencing, borehole installation, and general maintenance works, all scheduled for delivery within a one-month timeframe. The contractor appealed for the expedited release of funds to enable swift completion of the project.
The Okaghele of the community, Fred Osadolor, expressed gratitude to the state government for the intervention, pledging that the community would take responsibility for the security and monitoring of the facility to ensure it meets required standards.
Also, the SBMC Chairman, David Ogbebor, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to overseeing the project and supporting its successful execution.
The inspection team also visited Umagbae Junior Secondary School, where two separate construction projects are in progress.
One block of six classrooms with an office has been roofed and awaits ceiling and flooring work.
A second block of six classrooms is currently at the DPC level, with perimeter fencing also included in the project scope.
Barrister Briggs was accompanied on the inspection by the Director in charge of Projects and Planning Martins Amune, Director of Schools Austin Otas and SUBEB Board Member representing Edo South, Pastor Angela Okpamen.
Source: Edugist / Digpu NewsTex