The Lagos State Government reiterated that it does not tolerate corporal punishment in public schools and maintains counseling as an effective correctional measure.
State Specialist for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, made a statement in an interview with the Nigerian News Agency on Monday.
Alli-Balogun said whipping students is prohibited for discipline and other forms of misconduct.
He also said the purpose is to prevent harm to students, fainting of students, and even any student deaths caused by whipping of the class teacher.
According to him, whipping is not the best way to correct students.
“Policies in Lagos and other parts of the country prohibit teachers from corporal punishment of students/students. Against whipping students, we have adopted consultation as a corrective measure,” he said.
He added that small punishments such as kneeling down, picking up dirt and mowing grass could also be applied.
“This is part of our positive reinforcement, and it is a powerful tool to shape behavior and encourage expected results. This idea is to draw on the knowledge of a student that he/she must never behave badly.
“Consultation is basically corrected.”
He accuses students of their worst parents of growing up.
“Parents must awaken their responsibilities and have time to give their children. As government, we will continue to do everything we can to eliminate discipline and make learning environment friendly for all,” he added.
The Lagos State Government bans corporal punishment in 2022.
That year, it implemented security and child protection programs in schools.
