The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission has intensified its grassroots sensitisation drive, taking its monthly enlightenment campaign to Iwere College, Koko, in Warri North Local Government Area, with a strong message against the growing notion that “school is a scam” and the dangers of drug abuse and cultism.
The campaign, spearheaded by the Commission’s Department of Community Development and Public Enlightenment, engaged students and the wider public through lectures, debates, and interactive sessions aimed at reshaping mindsets and promoting responsible living.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Principal of Iwere College, Mrs. Uwelem Francisca, who represented the school’s principal, commended the DESOPADEC leadership, particularly Board Chairman, John Nani, and Managing Director, Festus Ochonogor, for what she described as a timely and impactful initiative. She stressed the importance of education in shaping the intellectual and moral development of students.
Also speaking, Mrs. Oke Etume, representing the Head of Department, Mrs. Chinenye Ezonfade, lauded the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for supporting the programme. She urged students to reject the misconception that education is futile, emphasising that “school is light” and a pathway to opportunity.
The event featured a lively debate between students of Iwere College and Christ the Saviour International School on the topic “School Is Scam,” with participants strongly arguing against the notion and highlighting the value of formal education in personal and societal development.
While most speakers dismissed the idea, one participant, Grace Agbeyigbe, noted that poor governance and leadership failures have contributed to public scepticism about education, even as she maintained that schooling itself remains essential.
Resource persons at the event further reinforced the message. Ms. Honeywell Eburajolo described education as a structured system that builds responsible individuals and outlined the different forms of learning—formal, informal, and non-formal education. In a related session, Ms. Elizabeth Odisu sensitised students on the dangers of drug abuse and cultism, warning against negative peer influence and its long-term consequences.
The programme also rewarded outstanding participants with gift items presented to students who took part in the debate.
Students from several schools across Koko, including Christian World College, Christ the Saviour International School, Beach Secondary School, St. Michael College, and Iwere College, attended the event.
The initiative forms part of DESOPADEC’s ongoing monthly outreach, aligned with the MORE agenda of the Oborevwori administration, aimed at promoting education, social responsibility, and youth development across Delta State.
