The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), bullying, cultism and drug abuse in public secondary schools, urging education stakeholders to work together to create safer learning environments for students.
The commitment was reiterated during a sensitisation programme organised by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in collaboration with the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) and the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.
The awareness campaign, held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium in Alausa, Ikeja, brought together teachers, students and education stakeholders to address the growing concerns surrounding violence, bullying, substance abuse and cult-related activities in schools.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, said schools must remain places where students can learn without fear of intimidation, abuse or harmful influences.
He described the fight against gender-based violence, bullying and drug abuse as a collective responsibility, stressing that parents, teachers, communities and government agencies all have critical roles to play in protecting children.
“Education is not merely about acquiring academic knowledge. It is about nurturing responsible, confident, morally upright and productive citizens,” he said.
The commissioner urged teachers to treat complaints of bullying and abuse with the seriousness they deserve, describing them as mentors and protectors whose actions can shape the future of young people.
He also encouraged students to report cases of abuse and support classmates facing harassment or intimidation instead of remaining silent.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, said the programme reflects the Lagos State Government’s commitment to providing safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments.
According to her, quality education goes beyond academic achievement to include the moral and emotional well-being of learners.
She urged parents and guardians to remain actively involved in their children’s lives by monitoring both their physical and online activities while fostering open communication at home.
Dokunmu-Adegbite also commended the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and the Ministry of Youth and Social Development for partnering with the education ministry to strengthen child protection initiatives across public schools.
Participants received presentations from officials of both agencies on the various forms of gender-based violence, the dangers of cultism and substance abuse, the consequences of bullying, and the importance of reporting abuse through established support channels.
The Lagos State Government said it would continue to strengthen partnerships and sustain awareness programmes aimed at promoting positive behaviour, protecting learners and ensuring that public schools remain safe spaces for teaching and learning.
