The Nigeria Education News on Monday visited Christ Africa Church Grammar School, Gbodofon, Osogbo, Osun State, to assess the level of student turnout, teacher preparedness, and overall readiness for the second-term resumption of the 2025/2026 academic session. The visit formed part of a wider effort to understand how schools are navigating the New Year resumption amid economic pressures and evolving expectations around education.
From the early hours of the morning, the school environment showed signs of renewed academic activity. Students began arriving steadily, many dressed neatly in their uniforms, carrying school bags that signaled a return to structured learning after the Christmas and New Year break. While the turnout was not absolute, school officials confirmed that a significant number of students reported for classes on the first day of the term.
Speaking anonymously, a senior teacher at the school described the resumption as “encouraging but gradual,” noting that some parents were still adjusting to transportation costs and other financial demands. “We expected that not all students would resume on the first day, but what we are seeing shows that parents still value education and are making efforts despite the challenges,” the teacher said.
Classroom activities commenced shortly after assembly, with teachers observed settling students, revising last term’s work, and introducing outlines for the new term. According to another teacher who requested anonymity, lesson plans and schemes of work had already been prepared ahead of resumption. “As teachers, we resumed fully ready. Education does not wait, and we owe these children our commitment,” the teacher stated.
Students who spoke with The Nigeria Education News expressed mixed feelings of excitement and pressure. A Junior Secondary School student said returning to school reminded her of her goals for the year. “I want to do better this term. My parents told me education is the key, so I’m ready to focus,” she said. Several senior students echoed similar sentiments, describing the new term as an opportunity to improve academic performance.
Some students, however, admitted that resumption was challenging due to financial strain at home. A senior student revealed that transportation costs and school materials were major concerns for many families. “It’s not easy, but we still came because missing school will only make things worse,” the student said.
Teachers at the school also highlighted the importance of discipline and consistency in sustaining academic progress. One educator explained that beyond teaching subjects, schools play a critical role in shaping values. “Education is not only about passing exams. It is about character, responsibility, and preparing students to contribute meaningfully to society,” the teacher noted.
The school management was observed monitoring attendance closely, with records being updated to track students yet to resume. According to staff members, follow-up efforts would be made to reach parents whose children had not returned, emphasizing the school’s commitment to reducing absenteeism.
The Nigeria Education News observed that teaching and learning facilities, though modest, were functional. Classrooms were open, teaching materials were in use, and teachers remained actively engaged with students throughout the day. While infrastructural gaps remain, educators stressed that commitment often compensates for limited resources.
Reflecting on the broader value of education, a teacher remarked that schools like Christ Africa Church Grammar School remain critical to community development. “When you educate a child, you strengthen the future of the society. That is why we continue, even when conditions are tough,” the teacher said.
Parents’ attitudes toward education were also discussed during the visit. Teachers noted that many parents had contacted the school ahead of resumption to inquire about schedules and expectations. “That level of concern shows that education is still a priority for many families,” one staff member added.
Students were also encouraged to see the new term as a fresh start. A senior student told this reporter that resumption brought renewed motivation. “Coming back reminds us that we still have dreams to chase. School keeps us focused,” he said.
As the second term unfolds, Christ Africa Church Grammar School, Gbodofon, appears set on maintaining academic stability through teacher preparedness, student engagement, and a shared belief in the enduring value of education. The early signs observed by The Nigeria Education News suggest a cautious but determined return to learning for the school community.
