Students of the Imo State Secondary School for the Deaf may soon learn in a safer and more supportive environment after the State House of Assembly ordered the urgent rehabilitation of the school following public concern over its condition.
The school, located in Ofekata, Orodo, Mbaitoli Local Government Area, is expected to receive improved classrooms, hostels, electricity, water supply, healthcare facilities and other essential infrastructure.
The directive followed a motion sponsored by the member representing Mbaitoli State Constituency, Innocent Ikpamezie.
In his ruling, Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Chika Olemgbe, directed the Ministry of Education to work with the Ministries of Works, Health, Housing, Water Resources and other relevant agencies to immediately upgrade the school.
“The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works, Health, Housing, Water Resources and other agencies, are directed to urgently rehabilitate and upgrade the school facilities, including classrooms, hostels, water supply, electricity, healthcare facilities and other essential facilities to make the Imo State Secondary School for the Deaf, Ofekata, Orodo safe, functional and habitable for the students and staff,” the Speaker said.
He also directed the relevant ministries to provide adequate learning materials, educational equipment, qualified personnel and other resources needed to meet the unique learning needs of the students.
The Assembly further instructed its Clerk to communicate the resolution to Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Ministry of Education and other relevant government agencies.
While presenting the motion, Ikpamezie said children living with hearing and speech impairments deserve quality education and greater government support.
He explained that the school was established to provide specialised education for children with hearing and speech disabilities, who require additional care and attention.
The motion, seconded by the member representing Ehime Mbano State Constituency, Bernard Ozoemelam, received the support of 13 other lawmakers.
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