- Safiu Kehinde
The Oyo State Government has reiterated its ban on mobile phones, smart watches, and Meta eyeglasses in schools amid surge in examination malpractices via online platforms.
This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the state’s Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola.
While addressing education stakeholders including Permanent Secretaries, Inspectors General of Education (PS/IGEs), and Heads of Departments during a meeting, Olayiwola emphasised the importance of discipline and integrity in the conduct of examinations.
The Commissioner said that there would be sanctions especially during examinations, warning that violators will face strict consequences.
He noted that an official circular already prohibits students from bringing mobile phones into school premises and examination venues.
The Commissioner urged school authorities to enforce this directive without exception while stressing that the use of smart watches, meta eyeglasses, and other devices that could facilitate examination malpractice were also strictly prohibited.
He called on teachers, parents, and guardians to monitor their wards closely and ensure compliance with these directives.
“We must all work together to uphold the integrity of our education system and maintain discipline across our schools,” Olayiwola stated.
According to reports, the WhatsApp channel has become a veritable means of leaking examination questions in Nigeria and particularly in Oyo State.
This had dented the credibility of examination in the country while also affecting students’ academic performances as observed in results of external examinations.