By Ella Michaels
Ifakala Community Secondary School, established in 1979, is facing a critical juncture in its history. Despite its legacy of academic excellence and proud alumni, the school's infrastructure has deteriorated significantly, affecting the quality of education and the overall learning environment.
*The State of Disrepair*
The school's facilities have been ravaged by years of neglect, with broken walls, missing roofs, and stolen laboratory equipment. The staffroom and principal's office leak profusely, forcing teachers to endure harsh conditions. Students also suffer, with no functional toilet facilities and a learning environment that has become a shadow of its former self. The situation is disheartening and shameful, with teachers compelled to return home or resort to the bush when nature calls.
*A Call to Action*
In response to this decay, the Ifakala Community Secondary School Alumni Association has declared a state of emergency on the school's infrastructure. They've taken the initiative to provide functional convenience facilities and borehole water. However, more needs to be done. The alumni association is calling on the state government, Mbaitoli Local Government, Nkalu community, Ifakala Community, and all concerned citizens to contribute to rescuing the school from total collapse.
*The Importance of Restoration*
Restoring Ifakala Community Secondary School is crucial for several reasons. Basic education is the foundation upon which tertiary excellence is built, and the experiences at this level shape a student's aspirations for higher learning. By reviving the school, we can ensure that future generations have access to an environment that fosters academic excellence. The school's alumni have gone on to excel in diverse fields, holding positions of influence in both public and private sectors. It's time for them to give back to the institution that molded them.
*A Collective Effort*
The 40th-anniversary celebration scheduled for January 2, 2026, is a clarion call for all alumni to rally together and give back to the institution that molded them. By harnessing collective resources and mobilizing funds, we can restore the dignity of Ifakala Community Secondary School and rekindle the light of excellence that once shone brightly. Let's turn this anniversary into a movement to rebuild, restore, and transform the school.
*The Challenges*
The school faces numerous challenges, including a shortage of qualified teaching and non-teaching staff, encroachment by locals, and security challenges that leave the institution vulnerable to further degradation. These challenges have compounded the school's woes, making it even more imperative for stakeholders to come together and find solutions.
*A Message of Hope*
Despite the challenges, there is hope for Ifakala Community Secondary School. With the collective effort of alumni, government, and the community, we can restore the school to its former glory. Let's work together to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for the students and ensure that they receive the quality education they deserve.
*Join the Movement*
Let's join hands to restore Ifakala Community Secondary School and leave a legacy of hope and transformation for generations to come. As the saying goes, "To whom much is given, much is expected." Let's answer this call and make a difference.
Signed:
Godspower Nnawuihe Ike (MPH)
For; the Alumni Association
