By Emmanuella Oghenetega
The story of Mrs. Altine Ngali Porgo, the Principal of Government Junior Secondary School Kaloh in Shongom Local Government Area of Gombe State, is a testament to the power of selflessness and dedication in the education sector. Her extraordinary commitment to transforming the life of a young student, Joshua Bala, who was born with hermaphroditism, should not go unnoticed.
Joshua, a Junior Secondary School Two (JSS 2) student from Kaloh – Bangunji ward, suffered social stigma and lacked the financial resources needed for proper medical care. Upon assuming office in 2023, Mrs. Porgo took personal responsibility for his case, engaging his parents and seeking medical intervention. Through her determined efforts, she secured medical consultations at General Hospital Kaltungo before taking the case to As-Sahl Hospital Gombe, where the first phase of surgery was conducted in December 2024.
Understanding the critical need for post-surgery care, Mrs. Porgo took Joshua into her own home in Kalorgu, Kaltungo, ensuring he received the necessary monitoring. The second and final phase of surgery was completed successfully on February 6, 2025, giving Joshua the opportunity to live a stigma-free life and reintegrate fully into society.
Mrs. Porgo’s unwavering commitment did not go unnoticed. *Maden Healthcare Foundation*, an NGO with a focus on Menstrual Hygiene, School Health, and Medical Missions, recognized her outstanding service by awarding her a certificate of commendation and a financial token of appreciation. This recognition highlights the significant role that teachers play beyond academics, in shaping lives and communities.
However, individual sacrifices such as these should not be left to personal goodwill alone. The Ministry of Education must take decisive action to formally recognize and support educators who go beyond their call of duty. Teachers like Mrs. Porgo should be honored at the state and national levels, setting an example for others and reinforcing the values of empathy and dedication in the profession.
With Mrs. Porgo set to retire in June 2025, the education sector must not let her legacy fade. The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with NGOs such as Maden Healthcare Foundation, should establish awards, grants, and welfare initiatives to support educators who make significant impacts in their communities. Recognizing and rewarding such acts will encourage more teachers to go the extra mile, ultimately strengthening the education system.
Joshua’s story, from suffering isolation to regaining dignity and hope, is a reminder of the transformative role educators play. It is time for the Ministry of Education to step up and acknowledge the contributions of teachers like Mrs. Porgo, ensuring that their sacrifices and dedication inspire future generations of educators.
