Chief Ede Dafinone, the senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, made an unexpected visit to Sapele Technical College, the second-oldest technical college in Nigeria, expressing his concern over its deteriorating condition.
He assured the students, teachers, and community leaders that he would collaborate with government authorities at all levels to revitalize the once-renowned institution. Despite being the first technical school in Delta State, Sapele Technical College has faced challenges such as a lack of power supply for the past two years and dilapidated workshops for practical training.
The college’s principal, Mrs. Itawansa Rosemary, shared a poignant account of the school’s dire state and how it has affected the students’ learning environment, with darkness prevailing due to the absence of electricity.
As a result, she explained, the students are experiencing frustration, and the teachers’ morale has been significantly affected.
Additionally, the principal revealed that the college has fallen victim to vandalism, with workshops being broken into and valuable tools and equipment stolen by thieves.
“It’s like a nightmare,” she said. “We’re just trying to keep the school going, but it’s an uphill battle”, she stated.
Subsequently, the senator was given a tour of the school premises, including visits to various departments such as the automobile, electrical, and furniture workshops. Deeply moved by the testimony of the school principal and the distressing conditions observed, Senator Dafinone made a heartfelt commitment to bringing about positive change to the college.
He assured that he would collaborate with both the state and federal governments to restore power and explore additional avenues to enhance the school’s infrastructure.
He said, “I’m not going to make any promises that I can’t keep. But I can promise that I’m going to do everything I can to help this school.
“This is a fact-finding visit. I understand what our community wants. I will carry that message to the state and to the federal levels and be sure that we are doing the right thing. And I know what the end goal is and will be sure that we carry it out.”
