The founder of Amazing Talent School, Odivwri Eddy, has reminded the federal government of the need to implement regulations that would guide against bullying in schools.
Eddy said this while chatting with newsmen at the school’s 16th graduation party in Idimu, Lagos State.
Addressing the issue of school bullies, Eddy opined that discipline should target individuals rather than closing down entire schools because of the actions of a few.
He said, “The federal government, through the Ministry of Education, should be watchful. As it is often said, people don’t mind what you speak; they mind what you can check. So, if schools know that the federal government will come and check, they’d be much more careful about bullying. It’s a matter of sticking to your standards and ensuring that what is not allowed does not happen. It is only what is allowed that should occur, and if what you do not allow happens, there should be consequences applied sufficiently as a deterrent to those who might attempt it. It’s as simple as that.
“Closing down an entire school for the actions of a single student who bullies is too harsh. Discipline should be applied to the individuals involved. If a child is found bullying, you can either suspend or punish him. If it is a continuous issue, you can expel the child to protect other students from the harm of bullying. It’s as simple as that. You don’t have to close the entire school because of it. It’s not the entire school that is bullying.”
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of Amazing Talent School, Steve Olusegun, has praised the institution for its commitment to nurturing talents.
He said, “I have been the PTA Chairman of this school for six years now. The school has been progressive, moving from one point of excellence to another. I have three children here, and I can say the teachers are among the best. I remember when my daughter struggled with writing, but now her skills are comparable to those in higher institutions. I highly recommend this school because it fosters talent and skills. I have never heard of bullying at this school, and this is why I have confidence in it — because the director frowns at bullying.”
