Adamawa State Bans "Marker Day" Celebrations to Promote Discipline
The Adamawa State Ministry of Education has implemented a strict ban on the "Marker Day" celebrations by Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) candidates. This decision comes as part of broader efforts to ensure discipline among students and maintain positive conduct within the education system.
Dr. Umar Garba Pella, the Commissioner of Education, explained that the ban was introduced to address concerns about inappropriate behavior during these celebrations. The government aims to prevent incidents such as fights between students and teachers, as well as disruptions like road blockages caused by the festivities.
"Marker Day" is a tradition where students mark each other’s shirts with pens after completing their exams. While this practice has been common in many parts of Nigeria, it has recently drawn criticism due to instances of misconduct. Some male students have been accused of exploiting the ritual to engage in inappropriate behavior towards female peers.
Garba emphasized that the ban applies to all secondary schools, both public and private, across the state. He stressed that no school will be exempt from the rule, regardless of its location—whether in urban or rural areas.
Legal consequences for non-compliance have also been outlined. Schools that fail to implement the ban may face legal sanctions. The commissioner stated that the government is committed to building a generation of morally disciplined students who can contribute positively to society.
Efforts to Address Teacher Shortages
In addition to the ban on "Marker Day," the ministry is also working to address the issue of teacher shortages. Dr. Garba announced that the Ministry of Education is conducting a recruitment drive for new teachers. This initiative aims to improve the quality of education by increasing the number of qualified educators in the state.
A total of 18,000 applicants have applied for the available positions, but the state government has approved only 5,000 recruitments. The selection process will be competitive and based on merit. An online Computer-Based Test (CBT) will be conducted for all eligible candidates.
Shortlisted applicants will receive notifications via email or SMS, and a website will be provided for them to check their names. The examination is scheduled to take place next week, with specific time slots and venues allocated for each candidate.
Broader Implications and Concerns
The ban on "Marker Day" has sparked discussions about the need for stricter regulations on student behavior during celebrations. In Kano State, similar concerns have been raised, with residents criticizing what they describe as indecent behavior during SSCE celebrations. Parents and community members have called for measures to curb inappropriate conduct, particularly related to cultural and religious values.
While the practice of marking shirts has been a long-standing tradition, it has increasingly come under scrutiny. Many now view it as an opportunity for some students to engage in misconduct, especially against female peers. As a result, there is growing support for policies that promote respect and accountability among students.
The Adamawa State Ministry of Education's decision reflects a broader movement toward ensuring that educational institutions foster not only academic excellence but also moral and ethical development. By implementing strict rules and addressing systemic issues like teacher shortages, the ministry is taking steps to create a more disciplined and effective education system.