The graduation ceremony of Redeemer Teap International School (RTIS) on Saturday was more than a celebration of achievement—it was a rallying cry to address the escalating threat of social media on Nigerian youth.
In a powerful keynote, Mr. Ike Onyechere, a member of the RTIS Board of Governors, warned that while physical security receives growing attention, the real battlefield lies in the digital world.
“Cyberbullying, toxic peer pressure, and moral confusion thrive in unsupervised online spaces,” he said. “This erosion of values is stealthy, hidden behind screens and usernames.”
Onyechere linked the rising global trends of rebellion and ethical disorientation among youth to unchecked screen time, calling for intentional parenting as a remedy—one rooted in supervision, spiritual grounding, and constructive academic engagement.
“We must go beyond digital filters. True protection is in the formation of character,” he emphasized.
Honouring Excellence: The ‘Superstar Award’ Debuts
Against this backdrop, RTIS launched its prestigious Superstar Award, recognizing students who have maintained two years of outstanding academic performance coupled with strong moral character.
Principal Oladimeji Yusuf hailed the award as a step toward building Nigeria’s future leaders:
“This isn’t just an award—it’s a statement. Excellence in academics and behavior begins here, and our graduates will carry that standard into society.”
Yusuf also commended the government’s transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for WAEC and NECO, describing it as a significant shift toward aligning Nigeria’s educational system with global digital standards.
Student Voices, Future Leaders
Graduates spoke passionately about their RTIS journey. Uduak Nkono, who plans to study law, shared how the school’s values reshaped her identity:
“I came in shy and uncertain. I’m leaving confident and ready to pursue justice.”
Mitchell Nwaukor, an aspiring criminologist, echoed this transformation:
“RTIS taught us responsibility. I’m committed to helping strengthen Nigeria’s security.”
These testimonies illustrated the school’s commitment to nurturing not just intellect, but emotional and social resilience.
A Tribute to Teachers
Ambassador Jude Nwaukor, a parent, concluded the ceremony with an urgent reminder about the role of educators:
“Teachers are the architects of this excellence. Supporting them isn’t a favor—it’s an investment in our nation’s future.”
Elijah Adeyemi
