OLIOGO/Nigeria: Olieogo Secondary School, Umuseti Olieogo, has celebrated six outgoing National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members whose dedication helped sustain learning in the school after nearly eight years of severe teacher shortages.
The school, like many others in Delta State, struggled as government-appointed teachers retired without replacements, leaving classrooms understaffed and threatening the educational future of children in the community. Faced with the risk of a total collapse in teaching and learning, the Umuseti Olieogo community mobilised to seek intervention through the NYSC scheme.
Their efforts yielded results last year when six corps members were posted to the school. Throughout their service year, the corps members filled critical teaching gaps, mentored students and restored stability and confidence to the school.
To further support their work, the community provided a fully equipped NYSC lodge with electricity and water, ensuring a safe and conducive environment for the corps members. This gesture underscored the community’s commitment to education and its appreciation for those who serve within it.
At the end of their service year, the community organised a recognition ceremony to honour the corps members for their selfless contributions. Each received a certificate of meritorious service and a cash award.
The presentation was made by the principal of the school, Mrs. Dorothy Ifeoma Esonye, on behalf of Mr. Chuks Ododo, Coordinator of the Umu Ezeti Virtual Town Hall Platform. In his message, Ododo commended the corps members for their sacrifice and positive impact on the school, urging them to remain worthy ambassadors as they progress in life.
He encouraged them to uphold values of discipline, hard work and integrity, expressing confidence that their contribution to Olieogo Secondary School would leave a lasting legacy.
The ceremony highlighted the power of community action and the vital role of the NYSC in bridging educational gaps, especially in underserved areas. The service of the six corps members, stakeholders noted, will continue to shape the lives and aspirations of students for years to come.
