Education

Education Stakeholders Advocate Collaboration to Combat Bullying in Schools

Written by Jerry Alomatu on December 2, 2024

News Views: 193

Education stakeholders have urged collaboration between school management and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to effectively tackle bullying in schools. This call follows reports of pervasive bullying in secondary schools across Nigeria, including a recent incident at Federal Government College, Enugu.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Dr. Olubukola Dosunmu, former President of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, FCT Chapter, highlighted the societal roots of bullying. She emphasized the importance of addressing behavioral issues that often originate at home due to economic and social challenges.

“Bullying is a social problem,” she said. “Schools and parent associations should adopt stringent measures to deter students, but it also requires parents to model moral behavior and tolerance at home.”

Psychologist Mrs. Chidiebere Nwankwo detailed the harmful effects of bullying on victims, citing emotional, physical, and academic impacts. She called for comprehensive anti-bullying programs to create safer school environments and reduce the administrative burden of handling such incidents.

A parent, Mr. Segun Aloba, criticized schools for often concealing bullying cases to protect their reputation and enrollment, which he said perpetuates the problem.

Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa condemned the culture of bullying, describing it as a violation of students’ rights and dignity. Following the incident at Federal Government College, Enugu, the ministry suspended the students involved and implemented enhanced security measures in federal schools.

Alausa affirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding students by reviewing safety protocols and increasing collaboration with law enforcement agencies.