The Federal Government has intensified the implementation of its National Policy on Anti-Bullying as part of renewed efforts to eliminate bullying in schools and ensure every Nigerian child learns in a safe, inclusive and supportive environment.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening school safety, promoting the well-being of learners and fostering greater collaboration among stakeholders to build secure and learner-friendly schools in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The renewed commitment was reaffirmed yesterday during a sensitisation workshop organised by the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
Speaking at the workshop, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Dr Aisha Garba, who was represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary, Hon. Olajuwon Rasaq Akinyemi, urged students to embrace the campaign slogan, “If you see something, say something,” encouraging victims of bullying and witnesses to report incidents without fear.
He stressed that creating a safe learning environment requires the collective commitment of students, teachers, parents, school administrators and government institutions.
The Federal Ministry of Education disclosed that sustained awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of the National Policy on Anti-Bullying have already contributed to a decline in reported bullying cases in schools across the country.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening stakeholder collaboration, improving reporting mechanisms and ensuring the effective implementation of the anti-bullying policy to safeguard learners and promote safe, inclusive and conducive learning environments nationwide.
It added that the initiative forms part of the Federal Government’s broader commitment to improving the quality of education by ensuring that every child can learn in an environment free from intimidation, harassment and abuse.