Strenghtening Education: Findings from Our School Visit (Part 2)

During our recent school visit to St. John’s Primary School, Iloro, in Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria, we assessed the learning conditions of the students and got direct feedback from both the students and the teachers. The students describe their classrooms as generally conducive and report having enough chairs, desks, and basic learning furniture. However, they were clear about the challenges they face daily in their academic journey. The absence of teachers for many subjects, a serious lack of textbooks and learning materials, and the inability of their parents to pay their school fees were the top reasons that made regular school attendance difficult. From the teacher's perspective, the average class size is small, with about 1 to 5 pupils per class, and effective teaching is limited by the absence of instructional materials. The teachers confirmed that they do not have adequate learning resources, noting that poverty and lack of payment of school fees significantly affect the students' ability to learn. Both the students and teachers emphasized that the most meaningful improvement would be the provision of learning materials for teachers and pupils alike. Our visit to the school revealed a generally supportive learning environment where teaching and learning are taken seriously, with dedicated teachers and pupils who are eager to learn. At the same time, this commitment is undermined by persistent challenges related to a lack of learning materials, few teachers to cover all subjects, and financial pressures that limit many of the students’ ability to attend and fully participate in school. Addressing these issues would greatly improve teaching and learning outcomes at St. John Primary School.