By Emeka Samuel, Uyo
Anti-Corruption clubs have been inaugurated in Secondary Schools in Akwa Ibom by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, ICPC in a renewed move to increase awareness of the dangers of corruption in the country.
The initiative which is in collaboration with the Youth Alive Foundation would see the clubs promote the core values of integrity and promote current efforts against corrupt practices in addition to carrying out programmes aimed at reducing public tolerance of corruption.
At the launch of the clubs in Uyo for schools in Uyo senatorial district, ICPC Assistant Chief Superintendent in charge of education Mr. Sulieman Jimoh said the commission took the move because it considered the youths most of whom are in the secondary schools as critical stakeholders in the fight against corruption.
“The youths have the needed energy and drive to turn the tide of corruption and all forms of ills and vices that have hampered the growth and progress of the nation. This inauguration and revitalization of Anti-Corruption Clubs is the beginning of a robust relationship between you, your schools and the Commission.” Jimoh said.
He said that the cardinal focus of the commission in the institutionalization of integrity in the nation through public education is actualized through the National Values Curriculum, integrity lecture series, and youth essay and debate competition.
“The SAC initiative will serve as a vehicle to project the values taught in the classrooms and ground students in practical behaviour. Thus value re-orientation is the core focus of formation of anti-corruption clubs in secondary schools. Indeed this is the vehicle through which the commission is educating young minds on the fundamentals of anti-corruption. Members are expected to be whistleblowers, challenging and reporting lack of integrity.” He said.
He enjoined stakeholders to continue to support the commission and give the anti-corruption clubs the necessary support to ensure their effectiveness.
Jimoh commended the Youth Alive Foundation, the Department for International Development and the State Secondary Education Board for their efforts in mobilizing the schools.
“Those of you who are fortunate to be members of the Anti-Corruption Clubs need to be upright in all that you do so that you are seen as role models worthy of emulation by your peer groups.” He told the students.
The launch would also take place in Ikot Ekpene and Uyo senatorial districts within the week.
