The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has intensified its sensitisation campaign against the growing belief that “school is scam,” taking its monthly enlightenment programme to Iwere College, Koko, in Warri North Local Government Area.

The initiative, driven by the Department of Community Development and Public Enlightenment under the Directorate of Social Services, also focused on educating students on the dangers of drug abuse and cultism.

 

Speaking at the event held on March 26, 2026, the Vice Principal of Iwere College, Mrs. Uwelem Francisca, who represented the Principal, commended the DESOPADEC leadership for the initiative.

She appreciated the Board Chairman, Chief John Nani, and the Managing Director, Chief Festus Ochonogor, for what she described as a bold step toward correcting the misconception that education is a scam.

 

Mrs. Francisca stressed that education remains vital for intellectual growth and societal development, urging students to take their studies seriously.

 

Also speaking, Mrs. Oke Etume, a Divisional Head in the department who represented the Head of Department, Mrs. Chinenye Ezonfade, expressed gratitude to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for supporting the programme.

 

She urged students to reject the notion that education is meaningless, emphasizing that “school and proper education is light.”

 

A major highlight of the event was a debate session between students of Iwere College and Christ the Saviour International School on the topic, “School Is Scam.”

Participants argued convincingly against the notion, highlighting the benefits of education and its role in personal and national development. 

Best Oritsematosan, representing Christ the Saviour International School, maintained that education remains a key pathway to success, while another participant, Grace Agbeyigbe, acknowledged that although education is not a scam, poor leadership and governance have contributed to the perception among youths.

Delivering a lecture, Ms. Honeywell Eburajolo described education as a structured system that shapes individuals into responsible citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to society.

 

She outlined the three forms of education — formal, informal, and non-formal — stressing that each plays a critical role in human development.

 

In a related session, Ms. Elizabeth Odisu sensitised students on the dangers of drug abuse and cultism, warning against negative peer influence and associations that could derail their future.

She highlighted the long-term consequences of substance abuse and cult involvement, urging students to make informed and responsible choices.

 

The event concluded with the presentation of gift items to students who participated in the debate, as part of efforts to encourage intellectual engagement.

Students from various schools, including Christian World College, Christ the Saviour International School, Beach Secondary School, and St. Michael College, participated in the programme.

The campaign aligns with the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and continues to serve as a platform for engaging young people across Delta State on critical social issues.