The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Thursday organised an anti-corruption debate for secondary school students in Osun on the impact of corruption in the society.
The debate was organised in commemoration of this year’s Children’s Day celebration on May 27.
Mr Demola Bakare, ICPC Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner in the state, said the debate was geared toward behavioural change in the minds of the students and further push its anti-corruption drive among the youth.
Bakare said a careful stakeholders’ analysis had identified the school system as a major pillar of any behavioural change and anti-corruption endeavour.
He said it was based on this analysis that the commission put together a robust programme of engagement with the school system as well as youths in the country.
“The debate is part of the public mobilisation (education and enlightenment) mandate of the ICPC.
“At the end of today’s debate programme, ICPC would have contributed something to competitive scholarship among secondary schools in Osun State.
“We would have deepened our engagement with the anti-corruption clubs established by the commission in schools around the state.
“Also, as part of the national ethics and integrity policy of the commission, students and youths would speak their mind, which will further encourage them to make useful inputs into the fight against corruption,” he said.
Bakare urged the students to add morality to their education, shun the get-rich-quick syndrome, embrace integrity and strive to achieve their dreams in life.
The debate, which is the first edition, has as its topic: “Who Is Responsible for Corruption, the Masses or Government?”
Fakunle Comprehensive College, Osogbo, emerged winner of the debate, defeating four other secondary schools that participated.
