Some years ago, I was posted to Nanka Girls — a once-all-girls school that had become a mixed secondary school. I served there during my National Youth Service. Honestly, it was one of the toughest phases of my life — not because of the location, but because of what I was about to experience.
As an English Language and Literature teacher, I was responsible for teaching nine different classes almost every day. It was demanding, but I embraced the challenge with passion.
I loved my students. I believed in rewarding brilliance and encouraged healthy competition with small cash gifts or shared lunch treats for top performers. Among the students, two brilliant girls — let’s call them Dera and Miss X — consistently stood out. I took a personal interest in their growth and even got to know their families. They were like younger sisters to me.
Then came Miss Y.
She once asked me for money and I declined. Days later, she threatened to “expose me” for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with Miss X — a claim that was completely false and hurtful. She made noise. She tried to destroy my reputation.
What did I do?
I stood my ground. I reported the matter, but surprisingly, some of the older teachers seemed too afraid to confront the brewing culture of intimidation from a few students.
I kept my head down, continued my service, and held onto my values.
On the day of my valedictory speech, as I prepared to leave the school, Miss Y walked into the staffroom, knelt before me, and begged for forgiveness.
I told her, “Nature has already forgiven you. I hold nothing against you. But go and sin no more.”
LESSON:
So much happens within the walls of our schools — some noble, some heartbreaking. As teachers, we must be firm, fair, and above reproach. Integrity must be our compass.
Teachers are great, no controversies
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