Anambra Firstlady Urges Practical Methods for Tackling Moral Decadence in Schools

By Praise Chinecherem

Wife of the governor of Anambra State, Mrs Nonye Soludo has called on stakeholders in the education sector to develop practical mechanisms for tackling rising moral decadence and eroding value system in schools.

She regretted deteriorating social values among students, calling on parents inculcate the right values in their children and wards.

The governor’s wife spoke on Tuesday in Awka during a one-day congress for stakeholders in education in the State themed, “Moral Regeneration and Value Re-orientation At The Basic Education Level: The Role Of Education Stakehokders In Anambra State.”

She called for immediate collaborative approaches towards reclaiming them for a guaranteed future.

She said, “Much of the fight must begin from the home largely affected by societal pressure and has lost bond and sacredness which once held the unit together.

“The blame for the moral and social downturn goes to everyone, including parents, guardians, religious and community leaders who have lost sight of their ultimate responsibilities.

“Conversations alone are mere first steps to finding solutions. There’s need for comprehensive reassessment and more practical step that tackles the problems from the roots.

Executive Chairman of Anambra State Universal Basic Education Baord (ASUBEB), Dr Vera Nwadinobi described basic education as foundation of moral, civic and intellectual capital.

She argued that character is cultivated while values internalized during formative years.

“The responsibility of stakeholders is critical in restoring shared values and morals. The congress must spark action, turning policies into practice and intentions to impact on system.

Earlier, Chairman of the event, Chief Clement Nwogbo urged stakeholders to appreciate the urgency of the challenges, likening educational values to character and ideological reforms.

“Investments in education will amount to waste if the right values and orientations do not define the products of the important sectors,” he stated.

Other personalities who graced the event included Executive Chairman of Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), Prof Nkechi Ikediugwu, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs Ify Obinabo, former provost of Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, Dr. Ego Uzozie, among others.

Several individuals who spoke at the event included Professors Emeka Ezeonu and Chukwuemeka Nwanegbo identified some major factors responsible for the growing moral decadence among school pupils.

They cited lack of clear value frameworks and parental involvement, inconsistent implementation, cultural and societal influences, teacher training and support, among others.

“The school remains veritable platform for instilling values. Teachers, together with parents, faith-based organizations, communities, and policymakers must rise to the task of renewed commitment,” they said.