The Benue state government has announced a ban on unauthorised access to private and public schools across the state by individuals, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other external bodies.
Speaking on Monday during a press briefing in Makurdi, the state capital, Margaret Adamu, commissioner for education and knowledge management, said extra lessons are also banned after regular school hours.
The commissioner added that the state also banned the use of mobile phones during school hours, stressing the need for strict compliance with government policies.
Adamu announced that the new academic session would begin on Monday, September 7.
She warned against “barbaric ways of celebrating birthdays”, where learners manhandle celebrants in schools, classrooms and hostels.
The commissioner also cautioned parents and guardians against assaulting, threatening, intimidating or verbally abusing teachers, principals and other school staff.
“No NGO, individual, organisation or external body shall enter a school to conduct programmes, activities, research, advocacy or interventions without the appropriate authorisation from the ministry of education and knowledge management,” Adamu said.
“Learners are expected to resume school on time, attend classes regularly and remain within authorised school areas. Late coming, truancy and loitering during school hours must be firmly addressed by school authorities.
“Bullying, intimidation, harassment, hazing and all forms of violence among learners are strictly prohibited. School authorities must establish and maintain safe, respectful and inclusive learning environments.”
Adamu said the policies were designed to protect learners, reduce unnecessary financial burdens on parents, improve discipline, strengthen school management and raise the standard of education in the state.
“I therefore warn that non-compliance with approved policies and directives will attract appropriate sanctions in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and guidelines,” the commissioner said.
“School proprietors, principals and heads of schools are expected to familiarise themselves with all relevant Ministry directives and ensure full implementation. Ignorance of an existing policy will not be accepted as an excuse for non-compliance.
