The Crucial Role of a Form Teacher in Secondary School

Within the dynamic ecosystem of a secondary school, the position of a form teacher, also referred to as a form master or form mistress, stands out as a linchpin, influencing students' lives in myriad ways. Beyond academic matters, the responsibilities of a form teacher are vast and intricate. In this article, we delve into these multifaceted responsibilities while shedding light on additional facets of their role and the remarkable impact they have on a student's journey through secondary school.

1. Career Guidance: Secondary school is when students begin contemplating their future careers. Form teachers aid students in exploring their interests, strengths, and career aspirations. They offer insights into different career paths, university admissions, and scholarship opportunities, aiding students in making informed decisions about their futures.

2. Attendance Management: Form teachers diligently take morning and afternoon attendance, keeping a watchful eye on punctuality, and note late arrivals. They reach out to parents when a student is absent without permission, ensuring that any underlying issues are addressed promptly.

3. Class Competitions: They serve as coordinators, preparing their class for interclass competitions such as debates, quizzes, or spelling bees, nurturing a spirit of healthy competition and camaraderie.

4. Results Compilation: Form teachers collect subject scores from subject teachers and compile termly results for their class, meticulously entering them into master sheets and progress registers.

5. Communication Bridge: Form teachers serve as crucial liaisons between the school, parents, and students. They communicate essential information regarding school events, academic progress, and behavioral concerns to parents, thereby fostering collaboration in the educational process. Open lines of communication ensure that all stakeholders remain informed and engaged.

6. Encouraging Positive Behaviour: Form teachers, in their role as moral compasses, ensure the school's code of conduct and discipline are upheld. They lead by example, promoting values of respect, responsibility, and fairness. When behavioral issues arise, they collaborate with students, parents, and school administrators to find effective solutions, thus fostering a conducive learning environment.

7. Personal and Emotional Support: Adolescence is a tumultuous phase of life, and form teachers often become a trusted confidant for their students. They offer a safe space for discussions about personal issues, provide guidance on peer relationships, and help address emotional challenges that surface during this transformative period of life.

8. Academic Mentorship: Form teachers are the academic compasses guiding their students through the maze of subjects and assessments. They meticulously record grades, assignments, and exam results, identifying those in need of extra support or 

enrichment. Early identification enables them to arrange tutoring or additional resources to ensure academic success.

Recognition and Compensation: 

It's worth noting that in some schools, becoming a form teacher is considered a promotion, accompanied by extra remuneration, recognizing the substantial commitment and dedication required for this role.

Conclusion: 

The role of a form teacher, also known as a form master or form mistress, is a cornerstone of secondary school life. Beyond academics, they provide guidance, emotional support, and a sense of belonging to students. These educators are instrumental in shaping responsible, confident, and compassionate individuals, not just academically but also personally. Their impact extends far beyond the classroom, ensuring students are prepared to navigate the challenges of the world beyond secondary school.

A Guide for Subject Teachers: Navigating the Back-to-School Transition

As the academic year kicks off on September 11th, 2023, subject teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience for students. To help teachers effectively prepare and navigate the challenges that come with the new school year, here is a comprehensive guide on what is expected of subject teachers.

1. Timely Reporting: It's crucial for subject teachers to report to duty promptly on the day of resumption. In some schools, teachers may be required to report on the Friday preceding the resumption day to prepare their teaching materials and notes.

2. Scheme of Work: Upon arrival, subject teachers should request the scheme of work from the principal or headteacher. The scheme of work outlines the topics to be taught each week throughout the academic year.

3. Lesson Planning: Teachers must craft weekly lesson plans based on the scheme of work provided by the school. These plans serve as a roadmap for classroom instruction.

4. Adherence to Timetable: Subject teachers should strictly adhere to the school's timetable, ensuring that they are present and prepared for each class as scheduled.

5. Assignments: After each lesson, it is the responsibility of teachers to assign homework or classwork to students. Additionally, teachers should diligently mark assignments, as this reinforces the importance of student accountability.

6. Testing Procedures: Teachers should be familiar with the school's testing procedures. Some schools administer multiple tests per term, while others have a different approach. Subject teachers must follow the school's method for conducting tests.

7. Examination Preparation: To streamline the examination process, teachers should take notes on potential examination questions while preparing their lesson notes for each topic. This practice will facilitate the timely creation of exam papers at the end of the term.

8. Assessment and Reporting: Post-examination, teachers must promptly and thoroughly mark students' scripts and submit the scores to their respective form teachers. If a teacher is assigned as a form teacher for a class, their responsibilities extend to managing the students' progress and releasing termly results.

In conclusion, the transition back to school should not be daunting for subject teachers. It's essential to approach the new school year with curiosity and a willingness to adapt to the unique culture of each institution. Don't hesitate to seek clarification and ask questions, as schools are typically eager to assist teachers in integrating seamlessly into their educational community. By following these guidelines and embracing the school's culture, subject teachers can play a significant role in nurturing the growth and development of their students.

ODE TO PUNCTUALITY

In lands where punctuality is a virtue rare, 

A syndrome lingers, causing quite a despair, 

They call it "African time," a casual stride, 

But in the world of clocks, it's a reckless tide.

In Nigeria's embrace, it's known far and wide, 

A habit that neglects the ticking tide,

African time, a foe to plans and dreams, 

Where seconds stretch to hours, it seems.

Yet time's a currency, in value untold, To squander it recklessly, we're often told, 

For time is money, a truth profound, 

And those who waste it find themselves unbound.

In meetings and appointments, we must be keen, 

Respect for others, not a fleeting scene, 

For when we honour time, we find our way, 

To progress, prosperity, a brighter day.

Let's bid farewell to "African time" we know, 

Embrace punctuality, let our virtues show, 

For time waits not, it marches on with grace, 

In every culture, every land, in every place.

So let us cherish moments, value each hour, 

In unity, we'll rise, like a mighty tower, For punctuality's a gift we can't deny, Time's importance, let it soar up high.

WHISPERS OF CHANGE MANTRA

Whispers of Change Mantra

In lands where sun-kissed savannas sprawl,
A tale of coups unfolds, standing tall.
African nations in tumultuous sway,
Seeking reasons why, night turns to day.

Power and pride, a potent brew,
Leaders falter, ambitions askew.
A struggle for control, hearts in dissent,
As military drums beat, a coup's intent.

Economic woes, corruption's grasp,
A people's patience worn, alas.
Leaders enrich themselves, the masses suffer,
Till soldiers rise, proclaiming, "No buffer!"

Yet celebration follows like a hush of rain,
Hope blooms anew, casting out disdain.
Why cheer for change brought by forceful hand?
A question raised, a paradox to understand.

Unity in upheaval, a sense of release,
But democratic values face a gradual decrease.
Worrisome, it is, this cycle's tide,
Celebrating coups, where liberties slide.

Seek a path of peace, a road less harsh,
Dialogue, justice, with no false march.
Empower the people, strengthen their voice,
Let democracy reign, let freedom rejoice.

Together we stand, in times of trial,
A continent's strength, a hopeful smile.
For Africa's destiny, a united endeavor,
Casting away shadows, bright future to gather.

Secondary School Etiquettes And Consequences For Breaching Them

SECONDARY SCHOOL ETIQUETTES AND CONSEQUENCES FOR BREACHING THEM

In the context of fostering a respectful, safe and productive
educational environment, the following school etiquettes outline the
expectations for students in various aspects of their behaviour and
conduct while in school. It summarizes the corresponding consequences
for breaching these guidelines, aiming to maintain a harmonious and
conducive learning environment for all. The consequences are meant to
address the untoward behaviour and help the student to learn from
their actions encouraging them to make better choices in the future.

Note that the consequences for breaching any of the etiquettes may
vary depending on the school and the severity of the rule violation.

1. UNIFORM: Students should wear the correct uniform according to the
acceptable dress code consisting the dress, the shoes, the socks, the
barret, the belt and the hairstyle.

*Punishment for not wearing the correct uniform at anytime include one
or more of the following:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Change of the wrong uniform,
c. Detention by kneeling,
d. Temporary seizure of incorrect uniform,
e. Community service,
f. Parent/guardian notification.

2. PUNCTUALITY: Students are expected to arrive on time to school, to
class or lessons and to any other school event, such as morning and
afternoon assembly.

*Punishment for lateness consist one or more of these:
a. Verbal or written warning,
b. Instant detention by kneeling down,
c. Community service,
d. Parent/guardian notification if the offense persists.

3. RESPECT: Students should treat teachers, staff and fellow students
with courtesy.

*Punishment for disrespectful behaviour or misconduct are:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Written apology,
c. Community service,
d. Counselling,
e. Suspension,
f. Expulsion.

4. LANGUAGE OF COMMUNICATION: Students should use appropriate language
and respectful tone while speaking to staff and fellow students.

*Punishment for inappropriate language:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Written apology,
c. Detention by kneeling,
d. Community service.

5. PERSONAL HYGIENE: Students must maintain proper hygiene and
grooming practices comprising: bath, teeth and mouth brushing, clean
ears, wash hands regularly, skin care, hair care, nail care, clean
uniforms, e.t.c.

*Punishment for poor personal hygiene:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Counselling,
c. Community service,
d. Parent/guardian notification.

6. CELLULAR PHONES: The use of any kind of cell phone by students
within the school is prohibited.

*Punishment for unauthorized use of phone:
a. Confiscation of the phone,
b. Community service,
c. Parental notification.

7. HOMEWORK, CLASS-WORK AND ASSIGNMENTS: Students should complete and
submit class-works or assignments on time.

*Punishment for incomplete assignment:
a. Lowered or no scores,
b. Detention by kneeling down,
c. Additional assignments.

8. CLASSROOM BEHAVIOUR: Each student is expected to follow classroom
rules and participate actively. These rules consist:
raising hand and waiting for acknowledgement before speaking,
listening attentively,
staying seated,
always following teachers' instructions promptly,
doing routine tasks like sweeping on time,
bringing all necessary materials to class like textbooks, notebooks,
pens, e.t.c.,
respecting everyone's belongings and space,
avoiding eating during lessons,
not leaving the class without permission,
not bullying others,
maintaining academic integrity by not cheating nor copying others, e.t.c.

*Punishment for for disruptive classroom behaviour:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Community service,
c. Detention by kneeling down,
d. Parent/guardian notification,
e. Suspension or expulsion.

9. ATTENDANCE: Students should attend school, all lessons and all
school events regularly.

*Punishment for excessive absence or truancy:
a. Mandatory makeup work,
b. Community service,
c. Parent/guardian notification.

10. INTEGRITY: Students should avoid cheating, plagiarism and dishonesty.

*Punishment for academic dishonesty:
a. Zero score on test or assignments,
b. Academic probation,
c. Community service,
d. Parent/guardian notification.

11. PROPERTY CARE: All students are expected to take care of the
school property.

*Punishment for damaging school property:
a. Community service,
b. Payment for repair cost,
c. Parent/guardian notification.

12. BULLYING: Students are to refrain from any form of bullying or
harassment of fellow students.

*Punishment for bullying:
a. Detention by kneeling/community service,
b. Counselling,
c. Parental notification,
d. Suspension.

13. NOISE LEVELS: Students should maintain appropriate noise levels.

*Punishment for excessive noise making:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Detention by kneeling,
c. Community service,
d. Restricted privileges.

14. HEALTH AND SAFETY: Students should follow all safety protocols.

*Punishment for disregarding safety rules:
a. Counselling and Educational workshop,
b. Community service,
c. Parent/guardian notification.

15. LOITERING: Students are not allowed to loiter in the school
compound outside of the designated break periods.

*Punishment for unauthorized loitering:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Detention by kneeling,
c. Counselling,
d. Community service,
e. Written apology,
f. Parent/guardian notification.

16. TRESPASSING: Students should walk along partways and not trespass
across any of the lawns or fields in the premises.

*Punishment for trespassing:
a. Verbal warning,
b. Detention by kneeling and spending extra time at the field,
c. Community service,
d. Counselling.

17. LEAVING THE COMPOUND: Students are not allowed to leave the school
premises without proper authorization. Doing so is a very serious
offence and could be dangerous.

*Punishment for leaving the compound without permission:
a. Parent/guardian notification,
b. Meeting with school administration,
c. Counselling,
d. Community service,
e. Probation/suspension/expulsion.

TOMORROW'S DANCE

Tomorrow's Dance

In shadows cast, tomorrow waits,
A canvas blank, uncertain fates.
With hopeful eyes and plans held tight,
We strive to grasp the coming light.

Yet in its essence, future veiled,
By twists and turns, by winds assailed.
Paths unseen, like rivers flow,
Beyond our grasp, they ebb and grow.

The crystal ball of time eludes,
No formula, no set of rules.
Human hearts may dream and yearn,
But destiny remains to discern.

Embrace the mystery, let it be,
A dance of possibility.
For in the unknown, we find our way,
In every dawn of a new day.

ODE TO PASSION

ODE TO PASSION

In fields of gold, where wildflowers dance,
A love blooms true, a sweet romance.
Beneath the sun's warm, tender embrace,
Your smile outshines its golden grace.

Like rivers winding through the land,
Our love flows on, hand in hand.
Just as trees stretch towards the sky,
My heart reaches for you, oh my!

A gentle breeze whispers your name,
In nature's choir, you're the flame.
With every moment, our love grows,
Like nature's beauty that forever flows.

Transforming Nigeria's Oil Industry: Legalizing "Illegal Refineries" and Establishing Regulatory Framework

Introduction:

Nigeria's oil industry has long been a crucial driver of its economy,
contributing significantly to government revenue and foreign exchange
earnings. However, the sector is plagued by a dichotomy between legal
and illegal refineries. While the legal refineries have struggled to
meet demand and operate efficiently, the so-called "illegal
refineries" have thrived, albeit in the shadows. It's time for Nigeria
to consider legalizing these operations and establishing a regulatory
agency to oversee their activities, with the aim of transforming the
oil industry and enhancing its socio-economic impact.

The Problem with Legal Refineries:

Legal refineries in Nigeria have faced numerous challenges, including
inefficiencies, corruption, and inadequate maintenance. These issues
have led to inconsistent output, supply shortages, and environmental
degradation. Inefficiencies within legal refineries have caused delays
and production shortfalls, which in turn have hampered Nigeria's
ability to meet its domestic fuel needs.

The "Illegal Refineries":

In contrast, the so-called "illegal refineries" have managed to
sustain operations despite their informal status. These operations,
often located in the Niger Delta region, have become a critical source
of livelihood for many communities. However, their unregulated nature
has resulted in environmental damage, unsafe working conditions, and
lack of quality control.

The Case for Legalization:

Legalizing the "illegal refineries" could have several benefits.
First, it would bring these operations out of the shadows and into a
regulated framework, enabling the government to collect taxes and
royalties. This additional revenue could be invested in local
communities, infrastructure, and environmental restoration efforts.
Second, it would help address the fuel shortage problem by increasing
the overall refining capacity within the country. Third, legalization
would allow for better monitoring of environmental practices and
safety standards, mitigating the negative impact on local ecosystems
and the health of workers.

Establishing a Regulatory Agency:

To effectively oversee the legalized refineries, the Nigerian
government should establish a specialized regulatory agency. This
agency could be tasked with issuing licenses, enforcing safety and
environmental standards, conducting regular inspections, and ensuring
that operations align with national interests. By creating a dedicated
body to manage these operations, the government can ensure that the
benefits of legalization are maximized while minimizing potential
risks.

Environmental and Social Responsibility:
Legalized refineries must be held to high environmental and social
standards. The regulatory agency should ensure that these operations
adopt modern technologies to minimize pollution and promote
sustainable practices. Additionally, provisions should be made to
provide fair wages, proper working conditions, and community
development initiatives for the workers and communities involved.

Conclusion:

Legalizing the so-called "illegal refineries" in Nigeria presents a
unique opportunity to reshape the country's oil industry. By bringing
these operations into a regulated framework and establishing a
dedicated regulatory agency, Nigeria can unlock economic potential,
address fuel shortages, and promote environmental and social
responsibility. This transformation has the potential to not only
benefit the oil sector but also uplift local communities and
contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.

Curbing Indiscipline Among Secondary School Students: Strategies for a Disciplined Learning Environment

Introduction

Indiscipline among secondary school students has been a perennial
concern for educators and parents alike. It disrupts the learning
environment, affects academic performance, and hampers the overall
growth and development of young minds. Addressing this issue requires
a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration between
educators, parents, and policymakers. By implementing effective
strategies, we can foster a disciplined atmosphere in schools,
enabling students to reach their full potential.

Understanding the Causes

Before discussing the solutions, it is essential to comprehend the
root causes of indiscipline among secondary school students. Some
common factors contributing to this behavior include peer pressure,
lack of parental involvement, teacher-student conflicts, academic
stress, and exposure to negative influences through media and the
internet. Moreover, societal changes and personal issues can also play
a role in a student's behavior.

Effective Strategies to Curb Indiscipline

Positive Discipline Approach:
Encouraging positive discipline is crucial to creating a conducive
learning environment. This approach focuses on promoting good behavior
through rewards, recognition, and praise, rather than solely relying
on punitive measures. By acknowledging and reinforcing positive
behavior, students are motivated to continue demonstrating responsible
conduct.

Student Counseling and Support Services:
Establishing counseling and support services within schools helps
students deal with personal issues and academic challenges. Trained
counselors can guide students towards making better choices, managing
stress, and resolving conflicts. Providing a safe space for students
to express themselves can significantly reduce indiscipline incidents.

Parental Involvement:
Parents play a vital role in shaping their children's behavior.
Schools should actively engage parents in their child's education and
discipline. Regular parent-teacher meetings, workshops, and open
communication channels facilitate understanding and cooperation
between parents and educators. Collaborative efforts enhance student
discipline both at home and in school.

Character Education:
Integrating character education into the curriculum is instrumental in
fostering moral values and ethical conduct among students. Emphasizing
traits like respect, empathy, responsibility, and integrity instills a
sense of discipline and cultivates a respectful school culture.

Establishing Clear Rules and Consequences:
Having well-defined rules and consequences for breaching them is
essential. Students need to be aware of the expected behavior and the
repercussions of misconduct. Consistency in enforcing these rules
sends a strong message and deters students from engaging in
indiscipline.

Encourage Extracurricular Activities:
Engaging students in extracurricular activities like sports, arts, and
clubs can provide a positive outlet for their energy and creativity.
Participation in such activities not only improves discipline but also
enhances teamwork and social skills.

Conclusion

Curbing indiscipline among secondary school students is a collective
responsibility that involves the school, parents, and the broader
community. By adopting positive discipline approaches, providing
counseling and support services, encouraging parental involvement, and
promoting character education, we can foster a disciplined learning
environment. Nurturing disciplined students not only benefits their
academic performance but also equips them with vital life skills to
become responsible and successful individuals in the future.

Achieving Academic Excellence: A Comprehensive Success Plan for Improving Your Child"s Average Scores and Class Position

When reviewing your children's results, focus more on their average
scores rather than their class position. Each child has unique
strengths and weaknesses, and the average reflects their potential and
areas for improvement. Avoid comparing them to others as it leads to
bitterness and unhealthy competition.

Encourage self-improvement and provide support to help them succeed. A
child with an average of 46% can reach an average of 86% next term
with the right assistance. Make out time to be actively involved in
their academics, create a strategic plan, and offer guidance and
discipline. Academic results should serve as a basis for action, so be
intentional and avoid unnecessary comparisons. Remember, your child
can do better with your support and a solid academic success plan.


Here are some effective academic success plans that can help a student
improve their average score and class position:

1. Set Clear Goals: Work with the student to set specific, achievable
academic goals for each subject. These goals should be realistic and
measurable, providing a clear target for improvement.

2. Create a Study Schedule:
Help the student develop a structured study schedule that includes
dedicated time for each subject. Consistent and focused studying is
key to making progress.

3. Identify Weak Areas:
Identify the student's weak areas in each subject and concentrate on
improving them. Extra attention and practice in these areas can lead
to significant improvements.

4. Seek Additional Help:
Encourage the student to seek help from teachers, peers, or tutors for
subjects or topics they find challenging. Sometimes, a different
perspective can make all the difference.

5. Practice Regularly: Regular practice and revision are essential.
Encourage the student to solve practice questions, past exam papers,
and review class notes frequently.

6. Enhance Study Techniques:
Teach effective study techniques, such as summarizing, mind mapping,
and active learning, to improve retention and understanding of the
material.

7. Minimize Distractions:
Create a conducive study environment by minimizing distractions like
social media, TV, or noisy surroundings.

8. Reward Progress: Celebrate the student's progress and achievements,
even if they are small. Positive reinforcement can boost motivation
and confidence.

9. Monitor Progress: Keep track of the student's academic progress
regularly. This will help identify areas that need further improvement
and track the effectiveness of the study plan.

10. Encourage a Growth Mindset:
Instill a growth mindset in the student, emphasizing that intelligence
and abilities can be developed through effort and learning. This
outlook encourages resilience and a willingness to embrace challenges.

11. Engage in Extracurricular Activities:
Encourage the child to participate in extracurricular activities that
align with their interests. Engaging in hobbies and activities outside
of academics can foster a balanced lifestyle and overall well-being,
which positively impacts academic performance.

12. Develop Strong Study Habits: Emphasize the importance of regular
sleep, a balanced diet, and physical exercise. Healthy habits
contribute to better focus and cognitive function.

Remember, each student is unique, so the success plan should be
tailored to their individual needs and learning style. Consistent
support, encouragement, and open communication with the student are
vital throughout the journey to academic improvement.

A WIDOWED'S RESOLVE (Poem Written by J.U. Ihejirika)

A WIDOWED'S RESOLVE

In a world of glass, a windowed soul,

With courage like a river, he plays his role.

Through storms and sun, he stands tall and strong,

Guiding his children where they belong.

With weary eyes that have seen much pain,

He toils tirelessly, his efforts not in vain.

His heart aches, his body worn,

Yet he presses on, from dusk till dawn.

A father's love, a steadfast flame,

Invisible battles he fights, without acclaim.

He shields his kin from life's harsh strife,

A beacon of hope in their journey of life.

When shadows fall and doubts arise,

He finds strength within, reaching for the skies.

For his children's future, he'll never yield,

His determination a mighty shield.

Though tired and worn, he carries on,

A brave windowed, his spirit drawn.

Through valleys low and mountains high,

He'll keep on working, never asking why.

For in his eyes, a love so true,

His sacrifices shine like morning dew.

With each new day, he finds the way,

To light their path, come what may.

SEASONS HARVEST (Poem Written by J.U. Ihejirika)

Seasons Harvest

Amidst fields of gold and skies so wide,

Farming season arrives with a gentle stride.

The earth awakened by the sun's warm embrace,

Seeds are sown with hope and grace.

With plows and hands, the soil is turned,

Life takes root, a lesson learned.

Tender shoots emerge, reaching for the light,

Nurtured by day and kissed by night.

Through rain and sun, the crops do thrive,

A dance of nature, so alive.

As seasons shift and time does pass,

The fields transform like a looking glass.

Harvest time approaches, a joyful sight,

Fruits of labour shining bright.

Bounty gathered, a reward well earned,

Gratitude fills hearts, lessons churned.

From seed to harvest, a cycle profound,

In farming's embrace, life's beauty is found.

As seasons change and stories unfold,

Nature's tapestry we forever hold.

THE THREADS OF FATE (Poem Written by J.U. Ihejirika)

In Fate's grand tapestry, threads entwine,

A symphony of lives, a design so divine.

Equal efforts sown, hearts brave and true,

Yet outcomes diverse, like morning's dew.

One's path may soar on wings of luck,

While another treads through shadows struck.

Fortune's dance, a fickle affair,

Bestows success here, and leaves hearts laid bare.

Life's stage, a theater of chance,

Where each actor strives, in their own dance.

Some find glory's embrace, radiant and bright,

While others wrestle with shadows of night.

Destiny's mystery, a puzzle untold,

Unfurls in ways unforeseen, bold.

In unity of effort, inequality resides,

As Fate weaves its tales, where truth abides.

So let us accept the diverse hands we're dealt,

And cherish the journey, in joy and heartfelt.

For though outcomes vary, we each leave a mark,

In the symphony of life, where we embark.

Tapestry material.

Facebook’s Digital Currency Operation Could Shift Power To The Wrong Hands

Facebook’s plan to operate its own digital currency poses risks to the international banking system that should trigger a speedy response from global policymakers, according to the organisation that represents the world’s central banks.

Although the move of big tech firms such as Facebook, Amazon and Alibaba into financial services could speed up transactions and cut costs, especially in developing world countries, it could also undermine the stability of a banking system that has only just recovered from the crash of 2008.

Echoing warnings from many tech experts, the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) said that while there were potential benefits to be made, the adoption of digital currencies outside the current financial system could reduce competition and create data privacy issues.

“The aim should be to respond to big techs’ entry into financial services so as to benefit from the gains while limiting the risks,” said Hyun Song Shin, economic adviser and head of research at BIS.“Public policy needs to build on a more comprehensive approach that draws on financial regulation, competition policy and data privacy regulation.”

The warning from the BIS on Sunday comes only days after Facebook announced it would launch its own digital currency, Libra, in 2020. It will allow its billions of users to make financial transactions across the globe in a move that could potentially shake up the world’s banking system.

Chris Hughes, a co-founder of Facebook, last week added his voice to concerns being expressed over big tech’s move into finance, warning that Libra could shift power into the wrong hands.

-NTA

BRIEF EULOGY TO MRS. GLADYS UZOAMAKA ONYEMAECHI (NEE IHEJIRIKA) DUE ON SATURDAY, 18TH MAY, 2019

Though she was older than I, Uzoamaka and I were close in age. Because of this, we shared a lot of the same friends. As siblings, we were mistaken for twins because we were in the same class. We started school in the same year and finished together (apology to our parents who had to buy double of all the books and other school materials when they had no twins).

Amaka was a very brilliant girl (or rather "woman") who was successful at everything she attempted. She married soon after school and raised a lovely family.

Hearing the news of Amaka's passing away was a sad event for us. It is hard to accept that she will no longer be with us. She once quoted while advising me: "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass; it is about learning to dance in the rain". Although incredibly difficult, this saying reminds me not to feel sorrow for her demise, but instead to feel grateful that her presence has blessed our lives.

Nevertheless, I admit that it is not pleasant that Amaka's life ended so early when she had so much life left to live. I take solace in knowing that she is now in heaven and God knows the best for us. The memory of her will continue to be in our hearts.

Adieu!