By Barth Ikiebe
The Chaplain of Divine Mercy Primary and Secondary School, Asokoro, Abuja, Rev. Fr Clement Igyeseh, has advocated for strong moral values in academic excellence.
The Chaplain stated this in a lecture entitled, the Importance of Moral Values in Academic Excellence at the graduation and prize giving day of Divine Mercy Primary and Secondary School, Asokoro, Abuja.
According to him,
“Graduation and Prize-Giving Day is a moment of celebration, reflection, and gratitude. It is a time when we acknowledge the academic achievements of our students and commend their hard work, perseverance, and dedication”.
“However, while academic success is important, true education goes beyond obtaining excellent grades and certificates. It also involves the formation of character, integrity, and moral values that prepare young people for responsible leadership and meaningful service to society”.
He stated that, “As we celebrate our graduating students, it is important to remember that academic excellence and moral excellence must go hand in hand. Knowledge without values can become dangerous, but knowledge guided by sound moral principles becomes a powerful instrument for personal growth and societal transformation”.
The Chaplain noted that at Divine Mercy Schools, they emphasized both academic excellence and moral uprightness, hence their motto: Fear God, Learn and Excel.
“We believe education aims not only to develop the mind but also to form the heart. A student who possesses strong moral values like honesty, respect, discipline, humility, self -control, obedience etc, is better equipped to make wise choices, overcome challenges, and contribute positively to society”.
He stated that one of the greatest threats to education today is academic dishonesty, including examination malpractice, plagiarism, and cheating.
“Such practices may produce temporary success but ultimately undermine personal growth and credibility. Honesty ensures that achievements are genuine and earned through hard work. Students who embrace integrity develop confidence in their abilities and become trustworthy individuals who can be relied upon in future endeavors”.
Father Igyeseh pointed out that the most successful students are not always the most gifted but often those who refuse to give up.
“Moral courage and resilience help students transform challenges into opportunities for growth, while
Parents and teachers should play a vital role in the moral formation of students”.
The chaplain urged the graduands as they prepare for the next stage of life to remember the following:
- Let integrity be your constant companion.
- Value hard work more than shortcuts.
- Use your knowledge for the good of others.
- Be responsible and accountable in all you do.
- Remain humble in success and hopeful in challenges.
- Let your faith and moral principles guide your decisions.
“As we celebrate the achievements of our graduating students, let us continue to encourage the pursuit of both academic excellence and moral uprightness”, Father Igyeseh concluded.
Meanwhile, the admission process of new intakes has commenced in readiness for the new academic session in September, 2026.
