The Imo State House of Assembly has directed relevant government ministries and agencies to immediately rehabilitate and upgrade the Imo State Secondary School for the Deaf located at Ofekata, Orodo, in Mbaitoli Local Government Area.

The resolution followed concerns raised over the deteriorating condition of the institution and came after a motion sponsored by the member representing Mbaitoli Local Government Area, Innocent Ikpamezie.

Lawmakers mandated the Ministry of Education, working alongside the Ministries of Works, Health, Housing, Water Resources and other relevant agencies, to undertake urgent improvements to the school’s infrastructure. The planned intervention includes the rehabilitation of classrooms and hostels, restoration of electricity and water supply, provision of healthcare facilities, and other essential amenities needed to create a safe and conducive environment for students and staff.

Delivering the House’s resolution, Speaker Chika Olemgbe said:

“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.

“That the relevant ministries take appropriate measures to provide the school with adequate learning materials, educational equipment, qualified personnel and other resources necessary to meet the unique educational needs of the students.”

The Assembly also instructed its Clerk to formally communicate the resolution to Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Ministry of Education and other relevant government agencies for immediate action.

Presenting the motion, Ikpamezie stressed the need for greater government commitment to the welfare and education of persons living with disabilities, noting that they require specialised support.

He said:

“People with disabilities are easily angered, so let us take extra care in giving them a good life. We shouldn’t let them loose two ends.

“The School of the Deaf, Ofeakata Orodo, was established many years ago to provide specialised education care for children with hearing and speech impairment, who by reason of their disability require greater support and attention from government.”

The motion received broad support in the House. It was seconded by the member representing Ehime Mbano State Constituency, Bernard Ozoemelam, and co-sponsored by 13 other lawmakers.

The co-sponsors include Amara Iwuanyanwu, Kanayo Onyemaechi, Chigozie Nwaneri, Kennedy Ibeh, Obinna Egu, Dominic Ezerioha, Ozioma Ebonine, Johnson Duru, Sam Osuji, Johnleoba Iheoha, Bernard Ozoemelam, Kelechi Ofurum, and Chisom Ojukwu.

Source: Punch