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Schools are meant to be an institution where students learn
and internalize the importance of ethics. Ethics are a set of principles and
values that govern our behavior and help us differentiate between right and
wrong. Students are provided with an environment where they realize that
unethical behavior would not go unpunished. Unfortunately, the statistics
compiled by our Ethics Society indicate a significant decline in the ethical
standards of students.
One of the most worrying trends is the increasing number of students playing
truant. Students are skipping classes and loitering in shopping complexes or
associating with a bad crowd. Some students are even faking illnesses to
avoid attending classes. In extreme cases, students are forging medical
certificates to attend events or activities of their interest. Such behavior
is unacceptable and reflects a lack of respect for the school's rules and
regulations.
The number of school bullies is also increasing, and weaker students are
being terrorized and extorted for money. The victims of bullying are
physically harmed, with some even losing their lives. Such incidents are not
only tragic but also reflect poorly on the values instilled in students by
the school. The school authorities should take immediate action to address
this problem and put in place preventive measures to curb such incidents.
Vandalism and stealing are also on the rise, with school equipment being
damaged or stolen. Such behavior is often linked to students being involved
in drug abuse. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention, as
it can have long-term adverse effects on the students' physical and mental
health.
To reverse this worrying trend, schools must emphasize civic education.
Civics education should not be limited to a subject but should be something
that students apply in their daily lives. Teachers play a crucial role in
encouraging students to behave ethically and demonstrate the importance of
moral behavior. Moreover, students should be encouraged to get involved in
community projects and graded assignments that involve the community. By
doing so, students would gradually learn the importance of acting in
accordance with rules and regulations when interacting with members of
society.
While punishments may act as a deterrent, they should be reserved for severe
wrongdoing. Instead, counseling should be used to help students understand
how their behavior can negatively impact society and their future. School
counselors play a vital role in this regard and can provide valuable
guidance and support to students who are struggling to navigate the complex
social and moral issues they face.
In conclusion, schools must take immediate action to revive the ethical
standards of students. The school authorities, especially teachers, have a
crucial role in ensuring that students are of high moral caliber. By
emphasizing civic education, encouraging community involvement, and
providing counseling services, schools can help students internalize the
importance of ethics and act accordingly in their daily lives. |
