By Boris Esono Nwenfor
FONTEM, PAV – It is early morning on Wednesday, March 11, and the classrooms of Government Bilingual High School (GBHS) Fontem are already alive with activity. Inside one of the classrooms, students sit attentively as their teacher leads a revision session in History, preparing them for the upcoming General Certificate of Education (GCE) examinations.
The students listen with rapt attention, aware that the examinations are fast approaching and determined to perform well and make their parents proud. For many at the school, the moment represents a return to normalcy after years of disruption caused by the Anglophone crisis, which significantly affected Fontem Subdivision and the wider Lebialem Division.
The crisis forced many schools to close at various periods, disrupting the academic journey of countless learners. Despite the challenges, GBHS Fontem is gradually regaining its footing as students and teachers resume academic activities with renewed determination.
Encouragement for the students came during a courtesy visit to the school by officials of LECUDO-USA alongside the Fon of Fontem. The visit formed part of activities marking the three-day free health campaign organised by LECUDO-USA in collaboration with Mary Health of Africa Hospital and other partners.
Addressing the students, the traditional ruler of Fontem, HRM Fon Asabaton Fontem , expressed satisfaction with the growing number of learners returning to the school. He encouraged them to remain focused on their studies and take their academic work seriously as they prepare for the GCE examinations.
The Fon also commended the teachers for their commitment and sacrifices in ensuring that students continue learning despite the challenges faced by the community in recent years.
Infrastructure Improvements at the School
Beyond the revival of academic activities, GBHS Fontem is also witnessing notable improvements in infrastructure aimed at creating a better learning environment.
The South West Regional Assembly is currently undertaking the construction of eight new classrooms, four offices and toilet facilities at the school. The project is expected to significantly improve teaching and learning conditions once completed.
At the same time, the ninth batch of ex-students of GBHS Fontem , popularly known as Gasa 89/90, have contributed to the installation of solar panels, providing electricity to the administrative buildings and other sections. The solar-powered lighting system now enables the school to function more effectively.
During his visit, the Fon of Fontem expressed satisfaction with the progress of construction works. “The last time I was here, the top floor had not yet been constructed, but now it has been completed, and roofing will soon begin,” HRM Fon Asabaton Fontem said. “I want to encourage the contractor to keep up with the pace of work so that our children can benefit from it.”
He also thanked the leadership of the South West Regional Executive Council for prioritising the project, noting that similar developments had been completed in other divisional headquarters, while the one in Fontem is nearing completion.
Signs of Recovery
For the school administration, the increasing number of students returning to class is a strong indication that normal life is gradually resuming in the area. Vice-Principal Richard noted that enrollment has improved significantly compared to the previous year.
“Last year, we had barely five students. This year, we have about 35 of them in school, which is a lot of improvement,” he said.
According to him, the visit by the Fon of Fontem and members of his entourage allowed them to see firsthand the progress taking place at the school, including the regional council construction project and the installation of solar panels by ex-students. “We were very grateful and happy about the solar that has been installed here by the ex-students of GBHS Fontem,” he added.
Reflecting on the gradual recovery of the school and the community, the Vice-Principal expressed optimism for the future. “Life is really back, and we hope next year will be wonderful,” he said.
