Lawmakers demand urgent action on failing school conditions

In a recent government meeting, legislators expressed deep concerns over the ongoing issues plaguing the public school system, particularly regarding inadequate repairs and sanitation in schools. The discussions highlighted that nearly half of the schools have yet to be inspected to ensure they meet safety standards, raising alarms about the learning environment for students.

Lawmakers have been convening in emergency sessions since Tuesday, emphasizing their frustration with the lack of action from school leadership. They criticized the current state of the education system, likening it to starting from scratch despite years of promises to improve conditions. One legislator pointed out that while education is a common campaign topic, the reality on the ground reflects a failure to address fundamental issues.

The meeting underscored the need for stricter oversight and accountability. Legislators proposed amendments to ensure that parents and representatives from parent organizations have the opportunity to inspect schools and verify their safety before the academic year begins. They argued that if a school fails an inspection, it should not be allowed to operate until it meets the necessary standards.

Concerns were also raised about the allocation of funds, with legislators noting that despite significant financial resources directed towards education, many schools still struggle to provide a safe and conducive learning environment. They highlighted discrepancies in resource distribution, pointing out that smaller schools with fewer funds often manage to perform better than larger institutions.

The legislators called for immediate action from the Department of Education, urging them to expedite repairs and improve procurement processes to ensure that schools are ready for students. The meeting concluded with a commitment to hold school leadership accountable and to prioritize the safety and well-being of students in the education system.