The Akwa Ibom ministry of education has commenced an investigation into the nutrition of boarding students at Presbyterian Senior Science College.
A video, which has now gone viral on social media, shows the college students eating meals in sub-human conditions.
The video also showed the deplorable state of the dining area in the school.
Idongesit Etiebet, the state’s commissioner for education, has ordered the suspension of Nse Sunday Umoh, the school’s principal, till the end of the investigation.
In a statement, the commissioner assured that the investigation will be focused on the key facilities of all 26 public schools in the state.
She further emphasised the need for parental support while stating the state’s commitment to the well-being of the students.
“Following from 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,” the statement reads.
“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, menu, kitchen, and sanitary facilities, will be jointly overseen by the permanent secretaries of the ministry of education and the state secondary education board.
“Consequently, I have also directed the immediate suspension of the principal of the school, Dr. Nse Sunday Umoh pending the outcome of the investigation.
“Although the free education policy of the state government covers tuition fees only and not boarding fees, the welfare and dignity of all students, especially those in public schools, remain a priority of the Umo Eno-led administration.
“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 ministry is committed to ensuring that all public school facilities meet irreducible minimum standards that uphold the well-being of both learners and staff.”
[TheCable]