Lagos Reaffirms Ban on Flogging in Schools, Emphasizes Counseling
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its stance against corporal punishment in public schools, advocating counseling as a more effective disciplinary approach.
State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, reaffirmed the ban in an interview on Monday, emphasizing that flogging students for indiscipline remains prohibited.
He explained that the policy aims to prevent injuries, fainting, or even fatalities that could result from physical punishment by teachers.
“Flogging is not the best way to correct a student. Lagos, like other states, has a policy prohibiting corporal punishment in schools. Instead, we have adopted counseling as a corrective measure,” Alli-Balogun stated.
He added that minor disciplinary actions, such as kneeling, picking up litter, or cutting grass within school premises, could be used as alternative measures.
“This is part of our positive reinforcement strategy, which helps shape behavior and encourage better conduct among students,” he noted.
The commissioner attributed some cases of student misconduct to poor parental guidance, urging parents to take greater responsibility for their children’s upbringing.
“As a government, we will continue working to eliminate indiscipline and create a conducive learning environment for all,” he assured.
Lagos State banned corporal punishment in 2022 and implemented the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme to enhance student welfare and discipline in schools.
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