Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its stance against corporal punishment in public schools, opting instead for counseling as a correctional measure. Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, emphasized that flogging students is prohibited, citing the potential for injury, fainting, or even death.
Alli-Balogun stressed that “there is a policy here in Lagos and other parts of the country prohibiting teachers from giving corporal punishment to students/pupils. Against flogging of students, we have adopted counselling as a measure of correction.”
In addition to counseling, minor punishments like kneeling down, picking dirt, and cutting grass within school premises may be applied. Alli-Balogun explained, “this is part of our positive reinforcement, it is a powerful tool for shaping behaviour and encouraging desired outcomes.”
He attributed most student misbehavior to poor parental upbringing, urging parents to “wake up to their responsibilities and have time for their children.” The government aims to eradicate indiscipline and create a friendly learning environment.
Notably, the Lagos State Government banned corporal punishment in 2022 and implemented the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme in Schools. The commissioner reported an improvement in student discipline, with students becoming more conscious of their actions and consequences.