Public primary school pupils in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory have resumed classes following the suspension of their teachers’ prolonged strike, but many are uneasy about their academic future.
The FCT branch of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) called off its strike on Tuesday after three months of industrial action, directing teachers to return to their classrooms immediately. The strike stemmed from salary arrears and unpaid minimum wage entitlements. Intervention by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike during a key stakeholders’ meeting finally led to its resolution.
Despite this, the mood among pupils remains cautious. Primary Four student Joshua Peter shared his concerns.
“Private schools are almost on holiday, but we’re just resuming. We’ve lost so much time,” he lamented. “For now, they only asked us to clean the school.”
Mercy Gwoza also spoke of her fears, stating that rushing through academic work might not benefit the students.
“I just hope our teachers don’t rush too fast because it’s not easy to learn everything at once,” she said.
For Jamiu Mahmoud, it’s about balancing the joy of reuniting with friends with the anxiety of catching up academically.
“I missed my friends, but I’m really worried about my studies,” he admitted.
Parents are equally concerned. Mrs. Manji Amos said that though she was relieved schools had reopened, the learning gaps remain alarming.
“The strike has caused too much disruption. Everyone must now work together to solve this problem,” she urged.
Education expert Mr. Tanimu Abdulmalik suggested that schools immediately evaluate students’ academic levels using simple tests or oral quizzes and then prioritize essential subjects.
He recommended compressed lesson plans and additional classes during weekends to help students recover.
Meanwhile, Educa.ng reporters observed that many reopened schools were yet to commence formal academic activities, leaving pupils idle.
