Ex-FSAS Students Lament Decline in Education Sector 

Precious Ugwuzor

Former students of  the Federal School of Arts and Science, FSAS, now King’s College,  in Victoria Island area of  Lagos, have expressed dissatisfaction over the decline in the country’s education sector.

The alumni, who therefore called for a reform n in the sector,  said the rise in bullying among secondary school students portrayed the lack of awareness among teachers.

They spoke at an evening of tribute held in honour of the school’s former Principal, late Timothy  Osolukoya, popularly known as Action man.

One of them,  Anne-Funmi Fatosin, said: “Bullying is a menace that must be addressed. We need to create awareness and encourage whistle-blowing to tackle this issue. The government must take responsibility and ensure that schools are safe for all students.”

Also speaking at the event, Mr  Charles Osolukoya, son of the deceased,   stressed the importance of parental involvement in education, saying,  “Parents must participate in their children’s education because  they  learn at home first. But if parents are ignorant, their children will be ignorant too. We need to encourage parents to take an active role in their children’s learning.”

 He described his father as a dedicated teacher, mentor, and parent who always put others first. He said, “I miss his constant imparting of knowledge and his passion for education. He taught me everything I know today. He was my father, mother, teacher, and mentor”.

Another ex-student, Kolawole Bakare, emphasizes the need for passionate teachers who are dedicated to  students’ success. 

Bakare said, “The lack of committed teachers is affecting the standard of education. Government must invest in the educational sector to improve the quality of teaching. Teachers should be rewarded and paid well to motivate them to do their best.

“Action Man was more than a Principal, he was a father figure who cared deeply about our well-being and education. He had a favorite saying, ‘Look for the philosophy for whatever you want to do in life, get the principle, add your passion and you will succeed in anything you are doing.’ He lived by this motto and inspired us to do the same.”