Ondo State Constitutes Task Force to Arrest Truant Students

The Ondo State Government has announced new measures to prevent students from roaming the streets during school hours.

Igbekele Ajibefun, the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, said in Akure on Tuesday that students found outside schools during lessons would be apprehended and face appropriate sanctions.

He explained that a special task force is being established in each of the state’s three Senatorial Districts to monitor and apprehend truant students. The task force will primarily consist of retired principals and teachers from local communities to support the Ministry of Education’s efforts.

Ajibefun stressed that the state government is committed to eliminating truancy in public schools and will hold school heads accountable if students are caught roaming during school hours.

The initiative follows a directive from Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for a total clampdown on truancy. The commissioner urged parents and guardians to cooperate with schools in monitoring student attendance and called on students to remain focused on their academics.

“Students must desist from roaming the streets during school hours to ensure the realization of their academic pursuits and parents’ dreams. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration remains committed to providing quality education for all children in Ondo State,” he said.