The Concerned Parents and Educators (CPE) group has issued a strong condemnation following the circulation of a viral video showing a teacher in Ikorodu, Lagos State, slapping a minor in a classroom.
The video, which has sparked widespread outrage, depicts what CPE describes as “an unprovoked and highly unprofessional act.”
In a press release signed by CPE Coordinator, Iyiola Layeni, on Wednesday January 8, 2025, the group decried the incident, labelling it a blatant violation of ethical teaching principles.
“Such behaviour not only undermines the ethical principles of teaching but also inflicts emotional and psychological harm on students, who deserve a safe and nurturing learning environment,” Layeni stated.
The group called for immediate government intervention to address the broader issue of unprofessional conduct in schools.
Highlighting the critical role of teachers as custodians of learning, CPE urged the government to equip educators with the tools to handle classroom dynamics with “empathy, patience, and professionalism.”
CPE demanded comprehensive sensitisation campaigns to educate teachers on the consequences of unethical behaviour on children’s emotional and mental well-being, enhanced teacher training programmes to integrate modules on child psychology, classroom management, and professional ethics, strict monitoring mechanisms to ensure schools adhere to professional standards and provide safe avenues for reporting misconduct, and the enforcement of disciplinary actions against teachers who violate ethical guidelines to serve as deterrents.
“This incident should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders in the education sector to prioritize the holistic welfare of students. Children are the bedrock of our society, and their safety, dignity, and growth must remain non-negotiable,” Layeni emphasized.
CPE reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for reforms that uphold the integrity of the teaching profession, while urging the government to act swiftly to prevent a repeat of such “reprehensible acts.” As public outcry over the video continues, all eyes are on the government to implement meaningful change in the education system.
