From Ijeoma John, Nnewi
In an inspiring demonstration of service and social responsibility, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Brown-Ofoeme Ebubechukwu Prosper, has successfully renovated four dilapidated classroom blocks at Community Primary School, Swali, in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The project, which forms part of his Personal Community Development Service (CDS), was inspired iby a harrowing first-hand experience at the school during a rainy visit earlier this year.
Brown Ebubechukwu, who is serving with the Nigeria Police Force, Bayelsa State Command, Headquarters, in Yenagoa, initially planned an anti-cultism campaign for his NYSC project. However, a visit to Community Primary School, Swali, changed the course of his service year.
“I was deeply disturbed by what I saw—children learning in flooded classrooms, with no roofs, ceilings, doors, or windows,” he recounted. “Many were soaked, some stood while others tried to shield their notebooks from the rain. It was a heartbreaking sight.”
According to him, the experience left a lasting impression that compelled him to act. “That day, I knew I couldn’t walk away and pretend that it didn’t matter,” he said.
After consulting with the headmistress and engaging with members of the community, he put aside his original plan and began mobilizing resources for a renovation project. With support from well-meaning individuals, he commenced the painstaking process of restoring the classrooms.
The once-decrepit structures have now been completely rehabilitated, providing a dignified and safe space for learning. Pupils who once sat in the rain now enjoy improved classroom conditions, complete with proper roofing, doors, and windows.
The renovation included re-roofing of four classroom blocks, installation of PVC ceilings, installation of 9 doors and 24 windows, and total repainting of the classrooms and administrative office.
His project has drawn commendations from NYSC officials and local leaders, who described it as a shining example of the impact youth can have in community development.
The NYSC Bayelsa State Coordinator, Mrs. Okpalifo Obiageli Charity, and the Police Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Police Force, Bayelsa State Command, DSP Musa Mohammed, have both lauded the project.