The Principal, Baptist Academy, Lagos, Gbenga Abodunrin, has urged the Federal Government to suspend its policy banning under-18 students from sitting for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
Abodunrin said the government needs to carefully plan on the modalities and implications before eventually implementing the policy.He said: “The policy is too sudden and unexpected. The Federal Government needs to plan better because it’s an initiative that will affect the country for the next six to seven years. Majority of students in SS 3 are less than 16 years, it means that in the next few years, we won’t have children that would be qualified to go to the university.”
He suggested that the FG should tackle it from the grassroots, which is primary school level. He urged the 97 graduating students to be good ambassadors of the school and not forget the lessons learnt.He also advised them to shun peer pressure and craze for money, which leads many youths into occultic practices, drug trafficking and abuse.
“Do not embrace the mentality of worshipping money and mediocrity in our society today. Be contented,” Abodunrin advised.
The National president, Baptist Academy Old Students Association (BAOSA), Mr Akin Fatunke, advised the students to embrace hardwork and not be easily discouraged when things don’t go well.
He said: “Failure is not a death sentence, success has to be properly managed, talent cannot be enough. We, as old boys, are waiting to hold you by the hand, guide, mentor, and help you in all aspects.”
The guest speaker, Olawunmi Edwards, emphasised on integrity, honesty, and empathy, saying these are qualities that would set them apart. Edwards further encouraged the graduands to view trials, failures and mistakes as opportunities for growth.
The chairman of the occasion, Mr Anthony Egoegonea, also encouraged the students to continuously strive for excellence, while upholding high moral standards to reach their full potential. Books, plagues and cash prizes were given to some of the students for their excellent performance by the old students.
