The Federal Government has cautioned students nationwide about the negative effects of engaging in examination malpractice, prostitution, cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices prevalent among secondary school students in Nigeria.

During a sensitisation meeting involving parents, teachers, students, and other stakeholders aimed at eradicating vices in secondary schools, the Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu, expressed concern about the increasing infiltration of vices that threaten the foundations of the nation’s institutions.

The event, attended by students from various secondary schools, principals, teachers, parents, and stakeholders, highlighted the detrimental impact of social vices, including examination malpractice, indecent dressing, prostitution, thuggery, cultism, drug addiction, smoking, robbery, premarital sex, bullying, cybercrimes, kidnapping, ritual killing, and gender violence.

Sununu emphasized the need for stakeholders to collaborate in finding solutions to curb these vices. He noted that secondary schools should not only be places of learning but also nurturing grounds where young minds are shaped and values instilled. He urged for an environment that fosters growth, respect, integrity, and discipline.

The minister stressed the importance of educating students about the consequences of destructive behaviors to improve academic performance and instill sound moral values. Director of the Senior Secondary Education Department, Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, encouraged students to embrace their role as agents of change and reject vices, while striving for excellence.