The indefinite strike embarked upon by the Nigeria Union of Teachers in Oyo State has continued to generate concern among parents and education stakeholders over its impact on pupils and students.
Some parents and teachers who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria in Ibadan on Wednesday said the prolonged closure of public schools had left many children idle, exposed to negative influences and disrupted their academic activities.
NAN recalls that the Nigeria Union of Teachers directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite strike beginning on June 1.
This was in reaction to the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.
A teacher, Mrs Yemisi Alao, lamented what she described as the nonchalant attitude of some parents towards the future of their children.
She said some parents leave their wards unattended while they go to work or attend to their businesses during the strike.
“Ignorance has led many parents to neglect their children’s future. They believe the government should do everything without them lifting a finger.
“The children are not well monitored, and some of those placed under apprenticeship are also not serious about learning the trade,” she said.
Alao described the situation as unfortunate, noting that the nation often reacts to challenges rather than taking proactive steps to address issues affecting children.
“As we pray and believe in God for the release of the abducted children, we should not forget to put measures in place to secure the future of every child,” she said.
She added that the strike came at a critical period when pupils and students were about to commence continuous assessment exercises.
According to her, the eventual resumption of schools may lead to rushed academic activities in an attempt to cover the curriculum.
“This is a collective call to action. People should be interested in mentoring children around them and engaging them meaningfully with books, sports and other productive activities so that their minds will be occupied with positive ideas rather than fraudulent ones,” she said.
Also, a parent living in the Mokola area of Ibadan, Mr Godwin Obinna, said the strike had led to many children roaming the streets, while others engaged in hawking products for their parents.
