Many parents in Nigeria are now resorting to unconventional measures to help their children succeed in school. Some change their children’s age to get them into university early. Others pay for examination malpractice so their children can pass with high scores. They believe they are helping, but they are teaching the children to lie and cheat.
This kind of help creates bigger problems. When children grow up thinking cheating is normal, they may also cheat when they become leaders. A dishonest child today can become a dishonest adult tomorrow. Education is not only about passing examinations. There is a lot more that it offers. For instance, it also teaches good behaviour, such as honesty, hard work, kindness, and patience. These are values that people need in real-life situations. Sadly, many parents focus solely on certificates and overlook the importance of character development. However, good behaviour is just as important as good results.
A visionary leader who is not kind or honest can harm the people he leads. That is why values such as respect, truthfulness, and humility must be instilled at home. Experts call this teaching ‘eko omoluabi,’ which means raising children to become good and responsible individuals. The truth is, schools and teachers cannot do it alone. Parents must build the proper foundation. If the home is strong, the society will be strong too. Let us stop encouraging cheating. Let us raise children who understand right from wrong. Nigeria will only get better when the home does its part.
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