I Wish My Teachers Knew Better.

Growing up in a small town in Ondo State, my childhood was a mix of fond memories overshadowed by the prevalence of violence. Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the pivotal moment when my parents decided to change my school as I was about to enter JSS1. Little did I know, this decision would alter the trajectory of my life forever.

In the small town of Kajola, violence was sadly normalized. From parental neglect to teachers abusing their power and students engaging in physical altercations, conflict seemed to be the norm. Inter-house sports events often escalated into battles, showcasing the toxic environment in which we were raised. While Kajola held a special place in my heart, I couldn’t ignore the detrimental impact of its violent culture on the development of children.

Transitioning to a new school marked the beginning of my unlearning process. Raised in an environment where aggression was the default response to conflict, I had to adapt quickly. The culture shock was real, but it also opened my eyes to the damaging effects of violence, not only on individuals but on entire communities.

However, my new school was not immune to violence either. Like many schools, it had its share of conflicts and confrontations. This realization underscored the urgent need to increase awareness of the negative impact of violence on children's well-being and development and the important role teachers play in ensuring a safe school.

The role of teachers.

It saddens me deeply to reflect on the fact that many of my teachers in both my old and new schools were not equipped to address the pervasive issue of violence. As educators, they hold a position of influence and authority in shaping the lives of their students. However, without adequate training and awareness, they inadvertently perpetuated a cycle of violence by failing to intervene effectively.

Witnessing the struggles of my peers and experiencing the challenges of navigating a violent environment myself, I couldn't help but wonder how different our experiences might have been if our teachers had been better equipped to recognize and address the signs of violence. It is a missed opportunity that weighs heavily on my heart, knowing that with the right support and intervention, many of the negative outcomes could have been prevented.

Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the experiences of their students. They must be equipped with the knowledge and resources to recognize and address signs of violence effectively. Training programs focusing on conflict resolution, empathy, and trauma-informed care should be prioritized to ensure that educators can support their students in times of need.

Similarly, schools must establish clear protocols for reporting and addressing incidents of violence, providing victims with the necessary support, and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. Creating a culture of respect and inclusivity within educational institutions is essential for promoting positive relationships and preventing future violence.

Beyond the school setting, parents, caregivers, and communities must also be actively involved in addressing the root causes of violence. Promoting open communication, empathy, and understanding can create a society where every child feels valued and safe.

In conclusion, the issue of school violence requires urgent attention and concerted action from all stakeholders. By working together and implementing these recommendations, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive in an environment free from fear and intimidation.

It’s time for our teachers to know better and for our schools to become beacons of safety, compassion, and growth for all children.

Thank you for reading.

Yours in Peace,

The Peace Shaper.