The Federal Government has expressed concern over the rising moral decadence in schools, emphasizing the urgent need for a change in approach to safeguard Nigeria’s culture and heritage for future generations.
In response, the government has launched a handbook on moral regeneration and reorientation within the basic education system, along with supplementary materials designed to combat moral decline among students.
The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Sununu, unveiled these resources during a flag-off event for teacher training and the presentation of sensitization materials on moral reorientation and regeneration in basic education, organized by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in Abuja on Wednesday.
Dr. Sununu highlighted that education transcends mere academic knowledge, asserting that true education instills values and ethics essential for fostering a just, peaceful, and progressive society. He stated, “While academic achievement is important, developing moral character, citizenship, and a sense of responsibility in our learners is equally critical to national development. We need a generation of learners who are not only academically competent but also emotionally intelligent, socially responsible, and morally upright.”
To maintain this momentum, the government is committed to continuous investment in the professional development of teachers, ensuring that their training evolves to meet emerging societal challenges and the changing needs of students. “At the core of any progressive society are individuals who possess integrity, empathy, and respect for others. These virtues must be nurtured in our children from their earliest years,” he added.
Dr. Sununu noted that Nigeria is currently grappling with various societal challenges, including increasing incidents of terrorism, internet fraud, sexual deviance, indiscipline, and violence among youth. He stressed that the need for moral regeneration is paramount, stating, “Our learners must be equipped with the skills to succeed academically while also making ethical decisions, fostering positive relationships, and contributing meaningfully to society. This teacher training is a crucial step towards achieving these objectives.”
The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, also spoke at the event, emphasizing that the program aims to equip teachers with the skills necessary to instill good morals in students and guide them in the right direction. He expressed optimism that the initiative will foster responsible learners who will grow into good and patriotic citizens.
Dr. Bobboyi stated, “Our hope is to infuse values within our educational system so that children grow up embodying these values and responding to the needs of their fellow human beings and the country.” He added that the revised curriculum would be effective in the classroom, addressing the current learning crisis in Nigeria and promoting good moral values.
Mr. Aleshin Olumayowa, Director of Teacher Development at UBEC, urged participants to commit to the program’s ideals, emphasizing the importance of instilling good morals both in and out of the classroom. “Efforts must be made to promote these values through extracurricular activities, and parents must also be involved during Parents-Teacher Association (PTA) and School-Based Management Committee (SBMC) meetings. It is only through collective effort that we can cultivate a society we can be proud of,” he concluded.
