The Department of Community Development and Public Enlightenment under the Directorate of Social Services, with support from DESOPADEC, organized its monthly awareness campaign aimed at educating students and the general public in Delta State.
The initiative focuses on correcting the widespread misconception that “school is a scam,” while also addressing the dangers of drug abuse and cultism. On Thursday, the campaign was held at Iwere College, Koko, in Warri North Local Government Area.
In her remarks, the Vice Principal of Iwere College, Mrs. Uwelem Francisca, who represented the Principal, expressed gratitude to the DESOPADEC Board Chairman, Chief John Nani, and the Managing Director, Chief Festus Ochonogor, for championing the initiative. She commended their efforts to change students’ mindset about education and emphasized the vital role schooling plays in intellectual growth and overall development.
Mrs. Oke Etume, a Divisional Head in the Department who represented the Head, Mrs. Chinenye Ezonfade, also appreciated the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for supporting the program. She encouraged students to reject the notion that education is meaningless, stressing instead that education is a source of enlightenment and empowerment.
A major highlight of the event was a debate between students of Iwere College and Christ the Saviour International School on the topic “School is a Scam.” Two female students from Iwere College spoke convincingly against the claim, outlining several benefits of education. Similarly, Best Oritsematosan from Christ the Saviour International School argued that education is valuable, while Grace Agbeyigbe acknowledged that although school is not a scam, poor leadership in the country has contributed to the negative perception among youths.
During the session, Ms. Honeywell Eburajolo of the Department addressed the students, describing the belief that education is a scam as misguided. She explained that school provides a structured environment that shapes individuals into responsible citizens capable of contributing to society. She also outlined the three forms of education: formal, informal, and non-formal.
Another speaker, Ms. Elizabeth Odisu, spoke extensively on the dangers of drug abuse and cultism. She warned students about their harmful effects and urged them to avoid negative influences and associations that could lead them into such activities.
The program concluded with the presentation of gifts to the four students who participated in the debate. The campaign, which aligns with the MORE agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, drew participation from students of various schools, including Christian World College, Christ the Saviour International School, Beach Secondary School, St. Michael College, and Iwere College, all in Koko.
