Residents of Ndoduo Okoyong community in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River state have welcomed the construction of a new primary school in the area, describing the development as a major relief for children who previously trekked long distances to access basic education NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The school project, facilitated by the member representing Calabar Municipal/Odukpani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Bassey Akiba, is expected to improve access to education for children within the Ndoduo axis and neighbouring settlements.
Before the intervention, many pupils from Ndoduo and surrounding communities reportedly walked several kilometres daily to attend PCN Primary School Akpap-Okoyong, a situation residents said often affected school attendance and learning outcomes.
A community stakeholder, Chief Akiba Ekpenyong, said the establishment of the school represents a significant milestone for families in the area, noting that the burden of long-distance trekking had for years posed challenges for young pupils.
He recalled that the sight of children walking long distances to school had been a constant concern for many residents, adding that the new facility would help reduce the stress associated with accessing education.
According to him, the presence of a primary school within the community will not only make learning more accessible but could also improve pupils’ concentration in class, boost academic performance, and enhance overall school attendance.
“For parents, it brings peace of mind knowing their children can now access education closer to home with reduced exposure to risks associated with long-distance trekking,” he said.
Ekpenyong also noted that beyond easing access to education, the school could contribute to broader community development by creating opportunities for teachers and other support staff, while promoting literacy and social advancement in the area.
He, however, urged residents to take collective responsibility for protecting the facility, warning that government infrastructure in some communities has in the past suffered damage due to neglect or vandalism.
The community leader stressed that safeguarding the new school would ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the project.
The Media Office of the Representative Member has disclosed that the construction of the school is part of efforts aimed at expanding access to basic education and improving learning conditions for children in rural communities within the Calabar Municipal/Odukpani Federal Constituency.
