With four existing schools spread across Abuja, Stella Maris School is set to increase the number of its institutions in the Federal Capital Territory, even as it engages the National Universities Commission (NUC) on the process of obtaining a license to operate a university.
The intention to build more schools and launch a university was disclosed by the schools’ Managing Director, Mr. Emeka Anyaene, during the recent week-long activities marking the institution’s 20th anniversary.
“We intend to build two more schools before the end of the year,” he said while speaking at the anniversary gala night.
The decision comes on the heels of the addition of a nursery and primary school which was opened in Life Camp last year to make it easy for parents living within Jabi, Life Camp and Karmo areas to gain access to a better learning environment for their children without transportation difficulties.
When opened, the two new schools will increase the student population of Stella Maris from its current 2,000 students.
While highlighting the contributions of the school to the education sector, Anyaene disclosed that the management of the school has decided to establish a university in future.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman, Board of Directors, Mrs. Afoma Onyeanusi, revealed that plans are underway to institute a board of governors. “This is to support the school management team and staff in providing outstanding education for the children while assisting in assessing the school’s key performance targets.”
She said the board would also aim at raising expectations of what could be achieved by the children and also strengthen the involvement of parents in their children’s learning process.
The week-long celebration featured various activities including sporting events and cultural display. The cultural activity was an avenue for the institution to encourage parents to teach their children their culture.
Speaking during a language game on the cultural day, the Academic Adviser, Stella Maris Nursery and Primary School, Mr. James Arllo, bemoaned the shocking reality that many students cannot speak their native tongues, while subtly blaming parents for the flaw. He advised parents to ensure that they communicate more with their children in their native tongues, as well as educate them on the various elements of their culture.
