The Lagos State Government has reiterated its unwavering stance against corporal punishment in public schools, emphasizing counseling as a more effective and humane method to address student indiscipline.
In an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday, the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, made it clear that flogging remains strictly prohibited.
This policy, originally enacted in 2022, reflects the state’s commitment to safeguarding students from physical harm and fostering a safer learning environment.
Alli-Balogun explained that the ban on flogging aims to prevent severe consequences such as injuries, fainting, or even fatalities resulting from corporal punishment administered by teachers.
“Flogging is not the best way to correct a student,” he asserted, highlighting the state’s adoption of counseling as the cornerstone of its disciplinary framework.
Beyond counseling, minor punitive measures like kneeling, picking up litter, or cutting grass within school premises are permitted as supplementary tools to reinforce positive behavior without resorting to violence.
The commissioner underscored the transformative potential of positive reinforcement in shaping student behavior. “Counseling is basically to correct,” he said, stressing that it helps students understand the consequences of their actions and encourages them to make better choices.
Alli-Balogun described this strategy as a “powerful tool” for promoting desired outcomes and creating a disciplined yet supportive academic environment.
While the government is taking proactive steps, Alli-Balogun pointed to poor parental upbringing as a significant factor contributing to student misbehavior.
He urged parents to take greater responsibility for their children’s development, emphasizing the need for quality time and guidance at home. “Parents must wake up to their responsibilities and have time for their children,” he said
Since the ban on corporal punishment was introduced in 2022 alongside the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme, Lagos has observed noticeable improvements in student discipline, according to the commissioner.
Lagos State’s resolute approach sets a precedent for educational reform, prioritizing student well-being while maintaining order.
By blending counseling with light, non-violent punishments, the state is forging a path toward a more progressive disciplinary
Alli-Balogun assured that Lagos will persist in doing its utmost to create a friendly and productive learning environment for all students, reinforcing its role as a leader in child protection and education policy.
